WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) released the following statement regarding H.Con.Res.153, a bill urging Congress to designate the first Monday in October as “National Voting Rights Act Mobilization Day”:
“Fifty-one years since the passage of The Voting Rights Act, the fight for equal access to the ballot box is far from over. Since the 2013 Supreme Court decision in Shelby v. Holder, many states have enacted laws that disenfranchise vulnerable voting blocs.
“Ohioans, too, are experiencing the impact of voter suppression efforts. Just last week, recent restrictions in our state were upheld, eliminating our critical ‘Golden Week,’ which allows same day registration and voting.
“The strength of our democracy depends on the participation of every citizen, and The Voting Rights Act removes discriminatory barriers to participation. National Voting Rights Act Mobilization Day would remind us of the importance of this landmark legislation, and galvanize communities to continue the fight for its full protections. No one should be denied the right to vote. The ballot belongs to everyone.”