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STATISTICS, PERSPECTIVES AND MORE

Here are some resources to learn more about statistics and perspectives related to the underrepresentation of Black women and women of color in elected office. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but just a few sources that are interesting and helpful.

Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP)

The Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP), a unit of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University has the most comprehensive collection of information about women elected officials in the United States. Here are some helpful links:

  • Women Elected Officials by Race/Ethnicity  (through CAWP’s Women Elected Officials Database you can search historical and current listings for women who have held office at the Congressional, Statewide elected executive, and state legislative levels nationwide, including based on race/ethnicity).
  • Facts on Women of Color In Office  (current numbers and percentages of women and women of color in the U.S. Congress, statewide elective executive offices, state legislatures, municipal officeholders, and mayors).
  • Reaching Higher: Black Women in American Politics 2023  (a report by the Higher Heights Leadership Fund and the Center for American Women and Politics)

Higher Heights for America PAC

Higher Heights for America PAC, the only political action committee exclusively dedicated to electing more progressive Black women at the federal, state, and local levels, provides information about Black Women in American Politics By The Numbers.

Latinas Represent

Latinas Represent aims to increase the number and diversity of Latinas in public service to transform our communities and build a more reflective democracy. Latinas in U.S. Politics 2022 is a report from Latinas Represent and the Center for American Women and Politics that provides a review of the current status of Latinas in elective office within a historical context.

The Brown Girls Guide to Politics

The Brown Girls Guide to Politics is a platform with the goal of providing visibility, knowledge, and access for Black, Brown and Indigenous womxn of color in and interested in politics. The site shares stories, information, and resources with a lens on intersectionality, social justice, and movement building.

REPORTS

Women in Congress: Statistics and Brief Overview

(Congressional Research Service, updated October 13, 2022) – includes extensive statistical information on women in Congress, including data specifically based on race/ethnicity.

Representation Matters is committed to changing the face of power by standing with and supporting progressive Black women and women of color candidates running for elected office.