Black Voters Matter goal is to increase power in marginalized, predominantly Black communities. Effective voting allows a community to determine its own destiny. We agree with the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he said, “Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is power correcting everything that stands against love.” We seek to achieve our goals with the following 5 core beliefs in mind: - The key to effective civic engagement and community power is understanding, respecting, and supporting local infrastructure. - Black Voters Matter not only on election day, but on the 364 days between election days as well. This means we must support individuals and organizations that are striving to obtain social justice throughout the year. - Black Voters Matter *everywhere*, including rural counties and smaller cities/towns that are often ignored by candidates, elected officials, political parties, and the media. - In order for Black voters to matter, we must utilize authentic messaging which speaks to our issues, connects with our hopes, and affirms our humanity. - The leadership, talent, and commitment demonstrated by Black women, in particular, must receive recognition and, more importantly, *investment* in order to flourish and multiply.