Good Day DA Madrid Members!
Today, August 6th marks an important anniversary: 58 years since the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was signed into law — the landmark legislation that defined the success of the civil rights movement.
The Voting Rights ACT (VRA) has been the umbrella to essential voting protections, especially for minorities and underprivileged citizens.
However, since the case of Shelby County vs. Holders, barriers began to emerge in Hispanic, Asian American, and African American populations. As a consequence, over one hundred restrictive laws have been enacted in 29 states. As of today 322 restrictive bills have been introduced in 45 states, which include harsh requirements especially for voters with disabilities, among the many other restrictions. (Information has been gathered from the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights)
Is the responsibility of Democrats Abroad to keep up with all legislations at the state and federal level to ensure that no voter is "left behind".
Our mission is to become the "voice of the many" by mobilizing legislation in favor of keeping the fundamental freedom of voting accessible to ALL Americans despite of their racial origin, disability or gender.
Let's join hands in moving forward legislation that protects voters and eliminates restrictions to citizens who by the nature of their condition, whichever one that may be, are being victims of legislation that restricts the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Today is an important date to remember, as we stand for equality for all voters!
All the best,
Lucia J. Perez Crespo-Hernansaiz
DA Madrid Chair