What's On Our Mind ...
Every single GOP Senator continues to put politics over country. They are letting their self-serving interests hijack their Constitutional responsibilities, and have chosen to prevent both debate and a vote on the For the People Act (S.1). This bill, if enacted, would be the most significant voting rights and democracy reform in more than half a century.
However, the GOP does not want to protect the civil rights for groups of Americans that they falsely claim stole the election from them and who, if allowed to vote, could potentially vote them out of office.
Voting rights are the heartbeat of our democracy. We can’t and won’t give up. This defeat should renew our commitment and energize us to keep fighting for the right of all Americans to vote in safe, fair, and free elections.
Clearly, it won’t be easy. We need to be ready for a prolonged battle.
The Brady Background Check Act — another landmark piece of legislation — was first introduced in 1987. But it stalled in Congress for seven years. Finally, it passed 13 years after Jim Brady, the bill’s namesake, was shot during the assassination attempt on President Reagan.
In 2015, the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage. This ruling came 45 years after the first legal challenge to the U.S. ban on same-sex marriage.
The 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, was first introduced in 1878. The Amendment was not ratified until 1920.
In 1965, reproductive choice activists won a victory when the Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution protected the right to privacy in family planning decisions. This paved the way for the right of women to have an abortion to be declared 8 years later.
These victories came after unending perseverance. They took years of consistent advocacy, action, and activism.
There is too much riding on election reform for us to accept defeat now. This week’s action is a step backward — for now — but one that must ultimately push us forward.
As the late Rep. John Lewis (D-GA), the conscience of Congress, said, “Nothing can stop the power of a committed and determined people to make a difference in our society.”
Today we begin the fight for tomorrow. We are committed and determined people. Show your commitment and determination by supporting JAC candidates who will make protecting voting rights their priority. Stay involved with JAC. Help us continue to make a difference.
