As we begin Black History Month, it is important to remember how fortunate we are to have a President who has been focused on restoring the American Dream for all Americans since his first day in office. President Obama has fought to create jobs, provide access to quality affordable health care, turn our schools around, and make college more affordable for millions. Indeed, the President has represented the best of America and has been that drum major Martin Luther King spoke of.

During his first term, these strong characteristic traits were the foundation for his presidency, and they will hold him in good stead during his second term. The President is a strong, innovative, deep thinker—just the kind of leader our country needed to get through some dark days. He has restored the image of our country both here at home and abroad and has leveraged the respect earned early on in his administration to get the country moving in the right direction.

His achievements separate him from others in this race, and I stand strong in my convictions that he will be re-elected. He is the only candidate with the determination to fight for all Americans, black, white, rich or poor. It gives me great pleasure to endorse, support, and help re-elect our president, Barack Obama. 

Johnnie Patton, National Committee Woman, MS; Secretary, DNC Black Caucus

Learn more about the President’s accomplishments here.

In 2008, a record number of people of color cast their ballots.  In fact, 15.1 percent more African Americans cast ballots in 2008 than in 2004.  More than 3 million African Americans voted for the first time in 2008, and more than 17 million Americans voted for the first time in 2008.

35 states introduced voter photo ID laws in 2011 – laws that would disenfranchise more than 23 million eligible voters who don't have the kind of ID these laws mandate. To make matters worse, 17 states have passed legislation aimed at limiting the right to vote. They have made it harder to vote early, vote with an absentee ballot, and have put up more barriers to register voters.

I remember the struggle to secure the right to vote. Thousands shed blood, sweat and tears to ensure that all Americans had access to the ballot.  Far too many even gave their lives fighting for this fundamental right. But these new photo ID laws would take us back to a time when this fundamental right was far too readily denied -- and we cannot afford to go back. It's up to all of us to protect our democracy by protecting voting rights for everyone. Go to http://www.protectingthevote.org/ and please share this important information with your friends, your family and anyone you know who is troubled by this assault on our right to vote.

Throughout Black History Month, DNC Black Caucus members will share updates about how the President’s accomplishments have benefited people of color, and highlight how we can continue fighting to move the country forward.

Each February, Black History Month honors the struggles and triumphs of millions of African Americans as well as their contribution to national, cultural and political life. During this month we recognize the extraordinary achievements of African Americans and their essential role in shaping the story of America.

This month, Americans around the country will celebrate the determination and contributions that African Americans have made to our nation. This year, we will not only celebrate the champions of the past but also the leaders and changemakers of today.

Throughout the month, we will highlight members of the DNC Black Caucus on our site. We will share the stories of these individuals who are on the ground fighting for the President’s vision through their work.