League of Women Voters Relentless in its Fight on Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act

Press Release

Contact: Elizabeth Poythress  

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 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF GEORGIA

Congress Must Act Quickly to Restore the Voting Rights Act

 [Atlanta, GA]  - August 6, 2013, marks the 48th anniversary of the signing into law of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA), widely recognized as one of the nation's most effective civil rights statutes. A key part of the VRA, known as Section 4, was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court in June.

 "Through its decision in Shelby County, Alabama v. Holder, the U.S. Supreme Court erased fundamental protections against racial discrimination in voting that have been effective for decades," said Elizabeth Poythress, President of the League of Women Voters of Georgia. "Only strong action from Congress can fix the Court's mistake, and that is exactly what we are advocating."

 More than four decades after the passage of the VRA it continues to play a vital role in preventing discriminatory voting measures. Section 4 of the VRA helped the U.S. Department of Justice block over 700 racially discriminatory voting measures between 1982 and 2006. Upon its last reauthorization in 2006 with overwhelming bipartisan support, Congress declared that without the VRA's protections, "racial and language minority citizens will be deprived of the opportunity to exercise their right to vote."

 "The impact of the Supreme Court's decision on voters will be significant and far-reaching," Elizabeth Poythress said. "This decision will only embolden those who seek to create barriers to voters' rights".

 "The League of Women Voters of Georgia is advocating for Congress to listen to the people and to quickly restore the VRA to its full strength," said Elizabeth Poythress. "This anniversary should be a call to action by those who believe in free and fair access by every eligible voter. Contact you members of Congress today and let your voice be heard".

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 The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. VOTE411.org is the place to go for the election information you need.

 Posted by: Amreeta Regmi

President, League of Women Voters of Gwinnett