In a newly released episode of Sticky Note Conversations, titled “From A Distance,” host Erika Washington sits down with Dawn for a wide-ranging conversation about the aftermath of the 2026 midterm elections, the future of Black political power, voting rights, and what it will take to build lasting change.
Recorded the day after Election Day, the November 7 episode explores the historic election results, grassroots organizing efforts that overcame political obstacles, and the opportunities—and responsibilities—that come with shifting political power.
Throughout the conversation, Dawn emphasizes that collective action matters. Reflecting on the election results, she explains:
“People power is the first thing that comes to mind… when we vote together, when we vote in numbers, when we do what they don’t expect us to do, we win.”
But Dawn makes clear that winning elections is only the beginning. She challenges listeners to think critically about what comes next and insists that elected officials must be held accountable to the communities that put them in office. Representation alone is not enough. As she puts it:
“All skin folk ain’t kinfolk… just because we have Black faces in high places doesn’t mean our work is done.”
Dawn and Erika also discuss the economic concerns shaping voters’ decisions, the future of the Democratic Party, threats to voting rights, and the importance of sustained investment in grassroots movements. They examine what political parties and elected officials owe Black voters—not simply in campaign promises, but through meaningful action on issues such as the Voting Rights Act, police accountability, and investments in children and families.
Perhaps most importantly, Dawn encourages listeners not to disengage after an election. She challenges communities to remain involved, follow elected officials, attend local government meetings, and demand accountability throughout the year—not just when candidates are asking for votes.
We encourage our supporters, partners, and community members to listen to this important conversation and consider Dawn’s challenge: voting is not the end of civic engagement. It is the beginning of the work.
Listen to the full episode: Dawn Blagrove – “From A Distance” on Sticky Note Conversations→