Lujan Grisham Marks 50th Anniversary of Voting Rights Act

Statement

Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham released the following statement commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act.

"Today, we honor those who marched and fought for the Voting Rights Act 50 years ago to ensure that all Americans have the right to vote, regardless of the color of their skin," said Rep. Lujan Grisham. "The strength of our democracy rests on the participation of all our citizens, and it is weakened when we disenfranchise any. We must renew our commitment to protecting this fundamental right for all Americans."

It has been more than two years since the Supreme Court's ruling in Shelby County v. Holder, which has been called "a dagger in the heart of the Voting Rights Act." In that decision, Chief Justice Roberts acknowledged the ongoing persistence of voter discrimination and invited Congress to develop a new coverage formula to protect equal access to voting.

"In the two years since Chief Justice Roberts called on Congress to revise and renew the Voting Rights Act, Congress has done nothing," Rep. Lujan Grisham said. "While House Republicans refuse to address this issue, states around the country have enacted voting restrictions that make it harder for students, the elderly, disabled and minority voters to participate fully in the electoral process. I urge Congress to restore the Voting Rights Act now."

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