Congresswoman Barbara Lee Releases Statement on the 55th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee released this statement on the 55th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, which was signed into law on August 6, 1965: 

“55 years ago, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act to fight racial voting discrimination and enfranchise millions of Americans who have been systemically excluded from our democratic process,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Today, as we remember this achievement, we must also reflect on the legacy of Congressman John Lewis, who courageously fought for the passage of the Voting Rights Act. 

 “Voting is at the core of our democracy and yet, the Supreme Court’s disastrous Shelby vs. Holder decision has allowed for states to suppress voting, especially for communities of color, elderly people, and individuals living in poverty.  

“Republicans in the Senate have continued to block legislation to protect the right to vote, including H.R.1. and H.R. 4. As we face threats to our election, including the COVID-19 pandemic, I urge Sen. McConnell to pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of 2020 to ensure all Americans have access to the ballot.”