Kristen Clarke made history as the first woman and first Black woman to be confirmed by the Senate to lead the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice. This groundbreaking achievement marks a significant milestone in the fight for equality and justice in America.
Breaking Barriers: Clarke’s Unique Background and Perspective
Clarke brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her role. As the daughter of Jamaican immigrants raised in Brooklyn, New York, she understands firsthand the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Her background gives her valuable insights into the issues she now tackles as Assistant Attorney General.
In a recent speech to members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Clarke emphasized the importance of their advocacy work. She noted that their efforts align closely with the mission of the Civil Rights Division, particularly in addressing challenges to democracy, racial justice, and equity.
Tackling Voting Rights: A Top Priority for Clarke’s Civil Rights Division
One of the main focuses of Clarke’s work is protecting voting rights. She highlighted the ongoing threats to democracy, especially since the 2013 Supreme Court decision in Shelby County v. Holder. This ruling weakened a key provision of the Voting Rights Act, making it harder to prevent discriminatory voting practices.
“The current attack on voting rights is widespread and deeply cynical,” Clarke stated. She emphasized her team’s commitment to using every available tool to address these challenges. Their efforts include:
- Challenging discriminatory laws and redistricting efforts
- Ensuring accessibility for voters with disabilities
- Monitoring elections on the ground
- Combating voter intimidation and disinformation
Advancing Women’s Rights and Combating Sexual Harassment
Clarke also stressed her division’s dedication to protecting women’s rights and fighting sexual harassment. She mentioned the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act, which they use alongside other laws to safeguard women in various contexts.
“We will use every tool available to protect the rights, dignity and safety of women and girls,” Clarke declared. Her team prosecutes cases involving sexual abuse by landlords, workplace discrimination, and assault by officials in jails and prisons.
Addressing Economic Disparities and Racial Wealth Gap
Another key area of focus for Clarke is closing the racial wealth gap. She pointed out the stark difference in median wealth between white families ($285,000) and Black families ($45,000). To combat this disparity, her division launched the Combatting Redlining Initiative in 2021.
This nationwide effort has already secured over $122 million in relief for Black communities and communities of color. Clarke proudly noted that their work is helping to generate $1 billion of economic activity in affected areas across the country.
Confronting Hate Crimes and White Supremacist Violence
Clarke’s division is also tackling the rise in hate crimes, particularly those targeting Black people. Since January 2021, they’ve charged more than 120 defendants in over 110 cases. These include high-profile prosecutions related to the killings of Ahmaud Arbery and the mass shooting in Buffalo, New York.
Most recently, Clarke’s team indicted two leaders of a white supremacist group called the Terrorgram Collective. This case demonstrates their commitment to addressing the evolving nature of hate-based violence in the digital age.
As Clarke continues her groundbreaking work, she remains committed to making equality, freedom, and justice more tangible for all communities. Her historic position as the first Black woman to lead the Civil Rights Division represents a significant step forward in the ongoing struggle for civil rights in America.
