Over the past several weeks, the Freedom Is At Stake GOTV Bus Tour has journeyed across critical battleground states, rallying and mobilizing voters to ensure that their voices are heard in this historically tight election. From Ohio to North Carolina, through Pennsylvania, Michigan, Georgia, and Florida, the tour has engaged youth, Black men, and communities of color—voter groups that are pivotal to the outcome of the 2024 election. The high-energy tour featured dynamic events with music, food, community engagement, and impactful voter education, highlighting issues like economic security, reproductive justice, the preservation of Black history, workers’ rights, and climate justice.
A Nationwide Movement for Democracy The Freedom Is At Stake coalition, made up of prominent civil rights, racial justice, labor, and youth empowerment organizations—including AFT, SEIU, NAACP, NextGen America, Push Black, Voto Latino, Mobilize Justice, Black Voters Matter, and others—has led the charge in energizing communities that often face systemic barriers to voting. Throughout the tour, the coalition’s on-the-ground presence has been transformative, reaching people in communities that are often overlooked by traditional campaigns.
Reflections from the Tour’s Partners and Stakeholders Andi Pringle, Founder and CEO of Registration Nation Action Fund, reflected on the tour’s success: “At each stop, we’ve seen firsthand the enthusiasm of communities eager to protect their rights and freedoms. When we connect the stakes of this election with the issues that directly impact people’s lives, voters are energized and empowered to make their voices heard. This is about much more than one election—it’s about securing our future.”
Insights from the Ground
Quentin James, Founder and President of The CollectivePAC, shared his observations from the field: “In every battleground state, the turnout of Black voters, young people, and communities of color will shape the future of this country. What we’re seeing on the ground is a hunger for change, and a determination to ensure that all of us have a seat at the table. The Freedom Is At Stake Tour has been a rallying cry, reminding voters of the power they hold.”
April Verrett, SEIU President, echoed the sentiment, saying, “Working people are the backbone of this country, and we are coming together to make sure our voices are heard. We’re demanding good union jobs, safe communities, affordable healthcare, and a government that fights for us. This tour has been a reminder that when we vote for us, we win.”
Insights from Local Partners Partners across the states also noted the sense of community and empowerment that the tour fostered. “We’re making a real difference in communities that have been historically overlooked,” shared Harry Johnson, VP of Strategic Partnerships for NextGen America. “Young people are more motivated than ever, and they want a government that reflects their values and respects their voices. Our work in partnership with the Freedom Is At Stake Tour has been a beacon for these communities.”
