For Immediate Release:
July 21, 2024
Press Contact:
Amanda Horn, Raben for Alliance for Youth Action, ahorn@raben.co
Brad Bauman, Raben for Alliance for Youth Action, bbauman@raben.co
The Alliance for Youth Action Network’s Response on President Biden’s Decision to Withdraw From Race
Washington, DC – The Alliance for Youth Action Network issued the following response to President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential election. As the leading network of youth-powered civic engagement organizations in the nation, the network remains unwavering in our commitment to driving the highest historic youth voter turnout and ensuring that the issues that matter to young people are front and center in the debate over the future of our nation over the next three months. Our dedication to organizing and mobilizing young people to ensure their participation in the democratic process is stronger than ever.
“This election represents a pivotal battle between two starkly different visions and futures for our country and democracy. It is not merely a choice between candidates but a fundamental decision about the direction in which we want our nation to head,” said Dakota Hall, Executive Director of the Alliance for Youth Action Network. “On one side, we face the threat of rising authoritarianism that seeks to undermine our democratic principles, silence dissent, and attack marginalized communities. On the other, we stand with the people, advocating for a future where every voice is heard, every vote is counted, and every individual’s rights are protected.”
Dakota Hall continued, “Our fight has always been larger than Trump, Biden, Democrats, or Republicans. It is about defending the very essence of democracy and ensuring that everyone has the right to be heard and live with dignity in our country. Throughout American history, the power and passion of young people have always been a driving force for change. We have seen it in the streets, in the polls, and in the countless movements that have shaped what our country is today. This moment is no different. We are organizing to create a society where justice and equality are not just ideals but realities, where every individual can exercise their rights freely and without fear.”
The Alliance for Youth Action Network is unwavering in its commitment to mobilize, organize, and inspire young voters across the nation. We believe in a future where democracy thrives and where the voices of young people play a crucial role in shaping the direction of our country. Together, we will continue working towards a brighter, more inclusive future where every individual can live with dignity, respect, and the assurance that their voice matters.
We have been ready. As we look ahead to November, it is clear that organizations led by and for young people are ready to lead and win. We are poised to elect strong champions, secure victories on critical issues like abortion, and help restore faith in democracy globally. The future is in our hands, and we are prepared to fight for it. Let’s get to work and continue to make history.
The full statement was signed on to by the following network partners:
AZ Poder
Chicago Votes Action Fund
Engage Miami
Forward Montana
Georgia Youth Justice Coalition
Leaders Igniting Transformation
Minnesota Youth Collective
MOVE Texas Action Fund
NCAAT in Action
New Era Colorado
Next Up Action Fund
NH Youth Movement
One APIA Nevada
The Washington Bus
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The Alliance for Youth Action grows progressive people power across America by empowering local young people’s organizations to strengthen our democracy, fix our economy, and correct injustices through on-the-ground organizing.