Another Blight on American History

Floor Speech

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Mrs. McBATH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais and what this moment means for the future of our democracy.

For generations, Americans have fought to make this Nation live up to its promise. Our democracy did not become more inclusive by accident. It became stronger because people of color organized, marched, sacrificed, and demanded equal access to the ballot box. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was one of the greatest achievements of that struggle, opening doors that had been locked to so many people of color for far too long.

This decision weakens protections that helped ensure Black voters and communities of color could fully participate in our democracy and have fair representation in Congress. Let me be clear, this decision does not end our fight, and it does not weaken our determination. The Congressional Black Caucus has always understood their progress in this country is never permanent unless we continue to defend it.

We have prepared for moments like this by rallying and building coalitions all across this Nation, and we will continue doing exactly that, because even in difficult moments, I still believe in the power of the people and the power of my people. I still believe in the strength of our communities, and I still believe that when Americans come together to protect our democracy, we will prevail.

That is why we will keep pushing forward. We will continue expanding access to the ballot box, protecting fair representation and ensuring that every single voice in this country is heard.

When we reclaim the majority--and, yes, that is coming, too--we will work to pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and continue the work of building a democracy that truly reflects all of America.

This is not the moment to retreat. It is the moment to organize, to vote, and to remind the American people that democracy is strongest when everyone has a seat at the table. The fight for voting rights did not begin with this court, and it will not end with this decision.

We have overcome far too much, sacrificed far too much, and achieved far too much progress to turn back now.

I look forward to working alongside my CBC colleagues as we move forward together. We will move forward together, united, and committed to building a democracy that is more just and Representative for all of our future generations.

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