The Community Matters: Finding the Source of the Radical Imagination of Black Women’s Political Ambition

ABSTRACT Previous literature on women and political ambition has shown that the ambition of potential candidates is often shaped by career paths that develop the kinds of skills useful for navigating the political environment. These studies often did not include the experiences of Black women who chose to run for office. Utilizing data from interviews with Black women elected officials across the country I offer that the key to making the decision to run for office is the unique socialization process of Black women. This process is shaped by generational examples of service, familial and community nurturing that encourages striving for excellence, and a sense of obligation to do work and not just hold a title. I find that though Black women at times initially doubt their ability to be successful in politics they often overcome these doubts as a result of encouragement by peers and community members who remind them of the skills they developed from their community and political work. They are also motivated to work to meet the needs of their communities. These experiences provide further understanding of how Black women purposefully engage within their communities and develop a standing that allows for their potential success as candidates.