Black women face new dangers under Trump-era politics
At the 2025 NAACP Convention in Charlotte, two powerhouse voices—Letitia James and Loretta Lynch—shared deep concerns. They warned that Black women are being unfairly targeted by U.S. legal systems under the current political climate.
New York Attorney General Letitia James and former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch both called out efforts by former President Donald Trump to roll back civil rights. They argued that this moment requires Black women to stay alert and act together. Lynch said what’s happening now is “how fascism has always started”—by targeting the least powerful.
Lynch warns of attacks on basic rights
During the Empowerment Brunch panel, moderated by Eboni K. Williams, Lynch criticized Trump’s executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship. She said it was “a bold, naked grab to rewrite the Constitution.”
Lynch explained that stripping rights from people who can’t vote or defend themselves is a dangerous move. “Going after the least powerful members of society… and making sure they never get [those rights],” she said. She warned the audience that these types of actions create division and damage the foundation of democracy.
Letitia James highlights Trump’s legal backlash
Letitia James reminded the crowd that Trump’s citizenship order has already been blocked by three courts. She also pointed out that “the president doesn’t use a pen—he uses a Sharpie,” making the whole order even more symbolic than legal.
James became a central figure in Trump’s legal troubles after she took him to court for civil fraud in late 2023. Trump responded by attacking her character, calling her a “racist A.G.” and mocking her demeanor in court. Despite his comments, James stayed focused on holding powerful figures accountable.
Building political power through community
Both James and Lynch emphasized the importance of staying politically engaged. Lynch urged the audience to “know your local leaders” before heading to the ballot box. She said voting is not enough without understanding who truly serves the community.
The NAACP has taken action by suing the U.S. Department of Education. The lawsuit claims that the government’s efforts to cut diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs are designed to harm Black students. The NAACP says the claim that racism no longer exists is dishonest—and dangerous.
A call to protect and empower Black women
Throughout the panel, both women delivered a clear message: the political fight is personal for Black women. Whether it’s voting rights, education, or safety, these rights are under attack. And the people being harmed the most are often those with the least power.
Lynch closed by urging Black women to protect each other. “We survive by staying informed, staying united, and standing firm in our values,” she said. James nodded in agreement, reminding the audience that now is the time to fight for a better future.
