1. United States
2. Va.
3. Letter

The right to vote is foundational to a thriving democracy. Yet this freedom is under relentless assault across the nation, with numerous states enacting laws that erect barriers and make it harder for Americans, especially Black voters and other voters of color, to exercise their constitutional right. The 2013 Supreme Court decision in Shelby County v. Holder severely weakened the Voting Rights Act, opening the floodgates for discriminatory voting policies. We urgently need federal legislation to restore and strengthen voter protections. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act is crucial to safeguarding the franchise and preventing suppressive measures from taking root. This bill would reinvigorate oversight provisions to identify and block discriminatory voting laws before they can disenfranchise citizens. It represents a vital step in ensuring equal access to the ballot box for all Americans, regardless of race or background. Congress must act swiftly to pass this legislation and uphold the ideals of our democratic system. The health of our nation depends on a robust, inclusive electoral process where every voice can be heard. Failing to advance the JLVRAA would be a dereliction of duty and a blow to the struggle for civil rights.