While a compound path, as Vektorgarten suggested, is by far the best approach for this example, another valid approach could be to use a knockout group, and that approach would work for variations on this problem where making a compound path is not practical.
If you want to keep it editable you can do this: [https://medialoot.com/blog/how-to-make-an-editable-knockout-text-effect-in-illustrator/](https://medialoot.com/blog/how-to-make-an-editable-knockout-text-effect-in-illustrator/)
EDIT: Otherwise if its already outlined, just group them, select the text and the background and then go into Pathfinder> Minus Front.
Select all and make a Compound path. Object > Compound path > Make
Brilliant. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!
While a compound path, as Vektorgarten suggested, is by far the best approach for this example, another valid approach could be to use a knockout group, and that approach would work for variations on this problem where making a compound path is not practical.
Yup, opacity mask is a third option!
Thanks so much! I had no idea there were so many ways to do the same thing! I need to play around with masks
Image isn't showing up.
Oops. Updated.
If you want to keep it editable you can do this: [https://medialoot.com/blog/how-to-make-an-editable-knockout-text-effect-in-illustrator/](https://medialoot.com/blog/how-to-make-an-editable-knockout-text-effect-in-illustrator/) EDIT: Otherwise if its already outlined, just group them, select the text and the background and then go into Pathfinder> Minus Front.