Statement on the 48th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act

Washington, DC (August 6, 2013) — Rep. Jan Schakowsky released the following statement on the Voting Rights Act:

"Today, I am happy to celebrate the 48th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Because of the actions of so many Americans, the Voting Rights Act was passed, ensuring that all Americans have the right to go to the polls, cast their votes, and participate in the American democratic process.

"We pause today to honor the heroism, like that of Rep. John Lewis and others, who fought to eliminate racial discrimination in voting, the most sacred American right. Because of their efforts, the Voting Rights Act protects the right to vote for millions of Americans who had been harassed, threatened or worse when they tried to go to the polls. Our nation is better as a result.

"Unfortunately, 48 years later, the Voting Rights Act is under attack. Since the Supreme Court struck down a key part of this important law in June, several states have moved forward with voter ID and other laws that will make it harder for American citizens to participate in the democratic process.

"That is unacceptable. The right to vote is one of the most fundamental building blocks of our democracy, and we must do whatever we can to make sure that all American citizens can take part. We best honor those that worked and even died for electoral democracy by passing the Voting Rights Act by ensuring that every American can go to the polls on Election Days, cast a ballot and have their vote count."

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