Women Leaders Spotlight: Stacey Abrams

Stacey Abrams is an American politician, lawyer, voting rights activist, and author who inspires black women everywhere. She served in the Georgia House of Representatives from 2007-2017. In 2018, she ran as the Democratic nominee for governor of Georgia. While she did not become elected for office, she still won a monumental victory. She was the first African-American female major-party nominee for a governor position in the United States. Though she did not gain the title of governor, history was made that day.

Adding onto her monumental accomplishments, in 2019, Abrams also became the first African-American woman to deliver a response to the State of the Union address. Since her time running for office, Abrams has made it her mission to stop voter suppression, making her a prominent figure during the 2020 presidential election. She encouraged and generated record-breaking voter turnout in Georgia in a crucial moment in the nation’s history.

Though she experienced a letdown in her past, she did not allow her losses to prevent her from making her name known in politics. She has become an influential leader in politics and continues campaigning for eligible votes to be counted. Abrams is inspiring black women and suppressed communities to turn up to the polls and fight a good fight every day.

Even after losing her 2018 election, Abrams rose above her disappointment and chose to uplift leaders who campaigned for the same changes she wishes to see done. By encouraging voter turnout for essential elections and issues, Abrams has, in turn, given marginalized communities a more prominent voice in politics. This has prompted many individuals who did not realize the importance of their vote or its impact. 

Stacey Abrams is an inspiration to many. Her leadership and commitment to her beliefs have inspired many future leaders, especially among minority groups. She has been recognized for her revolutionary work by leaders such as former President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, and more. 

Emerging from a more than the humble background, Abrams has shown it is possible to make your voice heard and inspire others to support predominant issues. She is an excellent model of rising from defeat, igniting change, and altering old patterns’ trajectory. Leaders of all positions can learn a thing or two from Abrams and her commitment to continual development. Though not all leaders are active in politics, it would be hard to deny the many benefits leaders can have by implementing some of Abrams’ principles into their organizations.