Congressman Marc Veasey Leads Bicameral Resolution with Senator Wyden to make September National Voting Rights Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Marc Veasey (D-TX), founder of the Voting Rights Caucus, and current co-chair, introduced a bicameral resolution with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) to designate September as "National Voting Rights Month". The resolution will encourage voter registration in the month of September, and push for the security of our electoral system and stronger protections to ensure Americans can safely vote amidst the Coronavirus pandemic.

"Now more than ever, we need real leadership to help American workers facing layoffs, feed hungry families, provide funding for testing and treatment for COVID-19, help renters keep a roof over their heads, and stop the systemic racism that is killing our Black communities. These seismic changes that our country needs right now depend on the ability of all Americans to have a voice at the ballot box this November," said Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33). "As a founding member of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus, I know firsthand that this unprecedented pandemic will exacerbate the existing challenges that voters already face when they vote. That is why I am proud to introduce this resolution to boost critical protections for voters across our country and safeguard our elections as we move closer to Election Day this November."

"The principle that every American has the right to choose our leaders by voting in free and fair elections should not be a partisan proposition," Senator Wyden said. "But far too often, Black Americans, and women and people of color have their Constitutional right to vote stolen by absurd disenfranchisement schemes. Today, with the future of our country in the balance and misinformation about voting spewing from the Oval Office itself, it is even more important to recognize the importance of voting rights. I'm proud to once again partner with Congressman Veasey to mark how voting rights are at the core of our democracy."

The Resolution would also put pressure on Congress to pass key voting rights legislation, including H.R.1, the For the People Act, H.R. 4, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, H.R.8015, the Delivering for American Act, and other bills. It also commemorates the life and legacy of John R. Lewis, and his commitment to voting rights in America; and the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which guaranteed women the right to vote. Additionally, the Resolution encourages public schools and universities to develop curriculums to educate students on voter suppression laws, and the importance of voter engagement.

This resolution has been endorsed by a number of voting rights and civil rights organizations, including the National Organization for Women, Fair Fight Action, Voter Protection Corps, Demos and the National Black Justice Coalition.

A copy of the resolution can be found here.