Louisiana’s March 2025 Elections: A Testament to Long-Term Investment in Democracy
On March 29, 2025, elections in Louisiana marked a significant moment for the state's democratic process.
Voters statewide considered and rejected four constitutional amendments addressing key legal and tax reforms. These elections demonstrated the impact of sustained community organizing and investment in democratic participation. Flozell Daniels Jr., Board Co-Chair of GNOFN and CEO of the Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation, emphasized the importance of long-term efforts in building democratic power in the following statement.
"The March 2025 elections in Louisiana delivered significant wins that were not simply the result of a sudden shift in public sentiment but a reflection of years of dedicated investment in grassroots organizing and democracy protection. These victories underscore both the challenges and the triumphs of ensuring that representative democracy remains accessible to the people of Louisiana.
At this political moment, polls show distrust in government remains high, fueled by concerns about its past behavior. Yet, the strength of these election outcomes speak to the resilience of the power-building networks that have been working for years to fortify democracy. The numbers show a clear impact. Statewide efforts were strategic and effectively mobilized; reinforcing the importance of sustained investment in civic engagement and power building.
For many organizers and advocates, this is the culmination of generational efforts, an outcome that would not have been possible without years of dedication to strengthening democratic participation. These successes are not perfect solutions to the broader systemic challenges, but they are meaningful steps forward.
The lesson for philanthropy here is clear: Long-term investment in community organizing, voter engagement, and democratic participation is essential. The work is difficult and often incremental, but it is necessary. Louisiana’s elections demonstrate that strategic, persistent efforts to build people power can shape the future, ensuring that get closer to the ideal scenario where democracy finally serves and reflects its people.
As we look ahead, the hope is that these lessons will be carried forward, replicated, and expanded upon. The work is far from over, but this moment proves that progress is possible—and worth fighting for.”
