For centuries, Asian Americans have been stereotypically regarded as quiet, submissive, and non-political. But as the Asian American population has grown over the years, we’ve shown the power of what is possible with the strength of our numbers. With 15 million Asian Americans eligible to vote in the upcoming 2024 election, Asian Americans are now the most rapidly growing demographic among eligible voters.
Asian Americans are 7% of the voting population, and although that may seem like an insignificant number, the 2020 US Presidential Election showed the nation the political power Asian Americans can have when we make our opinions and voices heard through our vote. On top of having the highest voter turnout in history since 1900, roughly 60% of eligible Asian American voters turned up at the ballot. This was a 48% increase from the 2016 election, and made for significant impact in battleground states, which led to Biden’s presidential victory. In Georgia, the AAPI voter turnout increased by 62,000 votes compared to 2016, with Biden winning the state with just less than 12,000 votes back in 2020. During that time, the AAPI vote was crucial in other swing states, such as Arizona, Nevada, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.
This year more than ever, it’s imperative for Asian Americans to band together again and show up to vote. With important issues like climate change, immigration, education, and women’s rights on the table, our votes have the power to influence the trajectory of the nation for years to come. Otherwise, we risk losing rights and privileges that civil rights activists have spent decades fighting for to Project 2025 under another Trump presidency. We’ve already seen the devastating consequences of Roe vs. Wade being overturned, and that’s only the first step to a long list of rights that Project 2025 would revoke.
Every vote counts, particularly in swing states, where just percentage points can make a significant impact upon the electoral vote. Even in blue states like California, the Asian American vote has only grown stronger, especially in recent years with the rise of anti-Asian violence and issues surrounding education. In the state, AAPI voter eligibility has grown by 9% in the past ten years, and now comprises 17% of the electoral state.
It’s imperative that we keep up the momentum and continue to make our voices heard, on both small and large stages. By doing so, we can ensure creating a more equitable United States for everyone to live and thrive in. Wherever you are, you can make a difference in this year’s election. AAPI Democrats Abroad members can help too. Here are some of the ways you can get involved wherever you are:
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Volunteer with the AAPI Caucus
- Help us to write articles, create social media content, or plan events
- Other suggestions are also welcomed!
- Phonebanking
- Talk with your friends and family about issues that matter to you and your community
While it may seem that Asian American involvement in politics has only made waves in recent years, it’s important to remember that Asian American activism has a long history – even the term “Asian American” is a product of this legacy. Today, we can continue this tradition with our vote. Let’s remember the great words from Grace Lee Boggs, who was a prominent civil rights activist and a huge advocate for social change and civic engagement: “You cannot change any society unless you take responsibility for it, unless you see yourself as belonging to it and responsible for changing it.”
Written by: Angela, DA Singapore