Says It’s Time to Restore Crucial Voting Rights Protections
New York, NY, June 25, 2015 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today applauded the introduction of the Voting Rights Advancement Act (VRAA) in Congress, which would restore voting rights protections for millions of Americans.
The bill, among other things, would protect voters in states with a pattern of discrimination, ensure that last-minute changes in voting procedures do not endanger citizens’ right to vote, and protect citizens from the changes that are most likely to disenfranchise communities of color and language minorities.
“Since the Supreme Court struck down large parts of the Voting Rights Act two years ago today, too many state laws have disenfranchised voters and disproportionately impacted communities of color,” said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. “Such discriminatory voting laws have been unparalleled since the end of Reconstruction, and it is time for all Americans - no matter their race, ethnicity, language preference, age or physical ability - to have their voices heard in the 2016 elections.”
“We applaud the introduction of the Voting Rights Advancement Act and look forward to working with members of Congress to ensure no one’s right to vote will be jeopardized,” said Barry Curtiss-Lusher, ADL National Chair. “Protecting voters across the country who live in states with a history of discrimination is the crux of restoring essential voting rights protections.”
Sen. Patrick Leahy sponsored the bill, S.1659, in the Senate and Reps. John Lewis and Terri Sewell sponsored the bill, H.2867, in the House.
Representatives from ADL are in Roanoke, VA today to participate in a rally urging Rep. Bob Goodlatte, Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, to hold hearings on the voting rights legislation.