The 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act highlights ongoing challenges faced by voters of color. Leading civil rights advocates stress the importance of litigation, grassroots efforts, and legislative reform to safeguard voting access. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act's urgent passage is called for, along with enhanced federal protections and community collaboration. Current threats to vulnerable groups in voting, policing, and housing indicate wider democratic risks, underscoring the need for immediate reforms and stronger enforcement mechanisms.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was not a gift from the powerful. It was the result of relentless grassroots advocacy and a direct response to the courage and sacrifice of those who marched on Bloody Sunday. But today the 'crown jewel' of the civil rights movement stands as a shredded shield-gutted, under attack, and left inadequate to protect the very voters it was designed to serve.
What's happening to the most vulnerable among us-whether in voting, policing, or housing-is a canary in the mine. When one community's rights are threatened, the entire democracy is at risk.
Congress must move with all urgency to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act into law. Our democracy cannot wait.
Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act is the most effective alternative dispute resolution tool ever enacted in federal law-pre-clearance stopped violations before they occurred and did so at reduced cost for all.
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