If you’ve been awake at all in 2024, you know that politics has been the headline-grabber (and headline-changer) of the year. But beyond the debates, elections, and soundbites, the world has been busy with everything from AI breakthroughs to labor strikes, and a crisis in Haiti that won’t quit.
Buckle up, because here’s a roundup of the stories making waves across the country in 2024.
2024 presidential election
The biggest story of the year was the presidential election between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. AP
In a stunning electoral twist, former Republican President Donald Trump made a dramatic return to the White House, defeating Democratic candidate Vice President Kamala Harris in a highly contentious race. But while the political circus was in full swing, 2024 also saw a significant leap forward for diversity in government (though it’s a shame we are in 2024, still making “firsts”). For the first time, two Black women were elected to serve simultaneously in the Senate — breaking barriers and setting a new tone in American politics. Their victories, hard-earned and deeply meaningful, signal that Black women are not only leading the charge for change but are demanding seats at the table, whether the election results go their way or not. The next four years? Hold on tight — it’s going to be a ride.
Project 2025…and yes, it’s still a threat
Comedian and actor Kenan Thompson speaks about Project 2025 during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The convention concluded with Vice President Kamala Harris accepting her party’s nomination. AP
In the 2024 presidential election, the nation saw its fair share of drama, controversies and headline-making moments — none more eye-popping than the rollout of Project 2025. This initiative, spearheaded by former President Donald Trump and his allies, promised to reshape the nation’s government and policies, with a focus on reducing federal power and rolling back many of the gains made in previous administrations. For Black Americans, Project 2025’s blueprint raised alarm bells, particularly given its potential to dismantle critical protections in voting rights, criminal justice reform and health care access. The question remains: Will Project 2025 actually bring change for the better, or will it be another chapter of déjà vu for Black Americans navigating the uphill climb toward equality?
Black women take a rest
Black women gave their all in the 2024 presidential election, with more than 92% supporting Kamala Harris. AP
After the whirlwind that was the 2024 election, Black women are taking a much-needed breather. While many have long been the backbone of political mobilization, advocacy, and voter turnout, this year, they are choosing to hit “pause” and reflect. The relentless work of advocating for policies that benefit not just Black Americans but the nation as a whole has taken a toll. It’s a moment of self-care, a brief respite before gearing up for the next chapter in the battle for justice and equity. But let’s be clear: this is not surrender. It’s simply an intermission in a game that Black women have been playing at the highest level for decades. Rest now change-makers, because the work isn’t done yet.
Immigration policies debated
Migrants wait to climb over concertina wire after they crossed the Rio Grande and entered the U.S. from Mexico in Eagle Pass, Texas. AP
In 2024, the Biden administration introduced significant new measures aimed at granting citizenship to hundreds of thousands of immigrants without legal status. This move was particularly impactful for Black immigrants, whose voices have often been overlooked in the broader conversation on immigration. With these policies, the hope is to balance security concerns with humanitarian needs, all while ensuring that Black immigrants — many of whom contribute significantly to America’s economy and culture — are not left in the margins. It’s a step in the right direction, but as always, the debate around immigration reform remains as heated as a summer sidewalk in Brooklyn.
Abortion rights take center stage
Abortion took center stage in 2024. AP
After the seismic shock of Roe v. Wade’s overturning, 2024 saw a political rebound with several states putting abortion rights front and center through ballot measures. In a decisive turn, seven of the 10 states that sought to protect reproductive freedoms were successful, with new constitutional amendments overriding existing bans. Black women, who have historically been at the forefront of the fight for reproductive justice, played a key role in organizing, advocating and voting for these measures. While the fight is far from over, these victories are a clear message: Black women will not back down when it comes to protecting their rights.
“They’re eating the dogs…”
Marie Morette, a congregant of St. Raphael Catholic Church, prays during Mass in Springfield, Ohio. AP
In Springfield, Ohio, 2024 brought an ugly chapter for the Haitian community as tensions escalated, and Haitians found themselves under fire — both literally and figuratively. A surge of hate crimes, fueled by xenophobic rhetoric and fueled by broader fears around immigration, led to a disturbing spike in violence against Haitians, a community already reeling from the turmoil in their home country. Black Americans, particularly those with Haitian roots, have been standing in solidarity with their fellow compatriots, raising their voices against both the violence and the broader scapegoating of immigrants. Despite the challenges, this new chapter in Springfield also highlighted the strength and resilience of Black Americans as they continue to advocate for justice, protection and respect in the face of rising anti-immigrant sentiment.
Haiti’s crisis ongoing
A resident carries tires to be added to a burning barricade to deter gang members from entering his neighborhood, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. AP
Haiti’s crisis continues to worsen in 2024, as the country faces escalating gang violence, a fractured political system and a humanitarian nightmare. The United Nations reported more than 2,500 people killed or injured in the first quarter of the year, with much of the violence disproportionately affecting the country’s poorest and most vulnerable. Haitians, including the diaspora in the U.S., are calling for global intervention and support. For Black Americans, the ongoing plight of Haiti is a stark reminder of the longstanding impact of colonialism, exploitation, and political instability — issues that continue to affect Black people worldwide. The international community is under pressure to act, but the clock is ticking, and Haiti’s pain is far from over.
Attacks on DEI initiatives
Walmart is just one of many companies rolling back DEI efforts. AP
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs faced significant headwinds in 2024, with companies such as WalMart rolling back their initiatives or outright abandoning them in the face of legal and political pressure. This wasn’t just a corporate trend — these shifts have real-world implications for Black Americans, who have long fought for equitable representation and opportunities. DEI, once seen as a tool for leveling the playing field, has become a flashpoint for political debate. Some argue it’s a necessary step for inclusion, while others see it as “too much, too fast.” For Black professionals and workers, the fight to maintain DEI isn’t just about policies — it’s about making sure their voices continue to be heard. In addition to WalMart, Molson Coors, John Deere, Lowes, Ford Motor Company, Harley-Davidson, Brown-Forman (the maker of Jack Daniel’s whiskey) Tractor Supply Company, and Toyota rolled back DEI policies. With a new far right administration, expect to see this list grow exponentially in 2025.
Artificial intelligence developments grow
Artificial Intelligence made huge strides in 2024 with places like Google Gemini becoming a normal part of daily life. Getty
Artificial Intelligence made huge strides in 2024, with tech giants like Meta announcing massive investments into AI infrastructure. While this might sound like sci-fi, it’s having real implications for workers, Black Americans included. As AI becomes more embedded in everything from health care to customer service, the debate about its impact on employment, privacy and society at large grows louder. While AI promises convenience and efficiency, it also poses risks to job security — particularly in sectors where Black Americans are highly represented. As AI continues to evolve, the Black community must have a seat at the table when it comes to ethical considerations and equitable access to these technologies.
Middle East conflicts arise
Palestinian citizens inspect damage to their homes caused by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, Gaza. Almost 800 people have died in Gaza, and 187,000 displaced, after Israel launched sustained retaliatory air strikes after a large-scale attack by Hamas. Getty
The Middle East remained a volatile region in 2024, with continued conflict between Israel and Gaza, and rising tensions involving Iran. While a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah brought temporary relief, the overall situation remains precarious, with the threat of a broader regional conflict always looming. Many Black people who support Palestinian rights say they see the Palestinian cause in the context of the African American experience, as the displacement, oppression and deprivation of a minority group. The international community’s response — or lack thereof — will have lasting impacts on global stability, and for Black Americans, the stakes are high in the fight for peace and justice on all fronts.
