The Georgia NAACP Applauds Senate Introduction of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Atlanta, Georgia - March 1, 2024] - The Georgia NAACP commends the efforts of the Senate in reintroducing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act on Thursday. This critical bill seeks to restore the integrity of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) and halt the implementation of discriminatory voting laws that have plagued our nation since the damaging Shelby County v. Holder decision a decade ago.

The Shelby County v. Holder ruling dealt a severe blow to the VRA by striking down its 'preclearance' provisions, thereby allowing the proliferation of restrictive voting laws in states like Georgia, Florida, and Texas. These laws have disproportionately targeted communities of color, erecting insurmountable barriers to their fundamental right to vote.

Gerald Griggs, President of the Georgia NAACP, issued the following statement regarding the reintroduction of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act:

“As a steadfast advocate for civil rights and equality, I am proud to offer my wholehearted endorsement and unwavering support for the reintroduction of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. In the face of mounting challenges to voting rights and democratic principles, the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act is a critical piece of legislation that seeks to protect and strengthen every American's fundamental right to vote.

We must ensure that our democracy remains inclusive and representative of all voices. In the words of the late Congressman John Lewis, 'The vote is precious. It is almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool or instrument in a democratic society. We must use it.'"

Together, let us honor the legacy of John Lewis by standing up for what is right, by defending the voting rights of all Americans, and by ensuring that our democracy remains a beacon of hope and progress for generations to come by passing the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

The Georgia NAACP stands firm in its belief that every citizen, regardless of race or background, deserves the unfettered ability to participate in our democracy. The reintroduction of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act presents an opportunity for Congress to rectify the injustices that have plagued our electoral system for far too long.

As we approach the 2024 election, with nearly 30 states implementing new restrictive voting measures, the urgency to protect our democracy has never been greater. The Georgia NAACP calls upon Congress to swiftly pass this critical legislation and ensure that the promise of democracy is upheld for all Americans.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Dontaye Carter

Communications Director

Georgia NAACP

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About Georgia NAACP:

The Georgia NAACP is dedicated to ensuring the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination. Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization.