Alan Williams Speaks Out on Voting Rights Act

Rep. Alan Williams, D-Tallahassee, is making his voice heard on the Voting Rights Act. Williams will be speaking Wednesday in Atlanta at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church following a presentation by legendary civil rights activist the Rev. Joseph Lowery and others who are launching a 50-state project to "counter unfair and unnecessary voting restrictions that have resulted in voter discrimination throughout the country," according to a statement from Williams.

It is essential that our state and national leaders move to reach bipartisan consensus and reauthorize the federal Voting Rights Act. The right to vote is sacred, and I believe that no state or local authority should be able to make it easier for some people to vote and harder for others to cast a ballot and have their vote counted," said Williams in a statement released Tuesday.

Bold action is warranted at the national level because of the disappointing blow to voting rights that was delivered under the June 25 Supreme Court ruling on the Voting Rights Act. In my view, the ruling contradicts with the strides that have been made by those who have fought to ensure equal voting rights and the promise of democracy for each and every citizen.

I recognize the importance of the fight back against voter suppression laws. Just a few years ago, in 2011, Florida imposed changes to the election system that significantly suppressed and disenfranchised voters. Other states also proposed and passed laws restricting voting rights. The results were damaging. As we all know, voting rights are not just the foundation of American democracy, but they also are the basis of economic freedom and prosperity.

Thankfully, I am pleased to have had the opportunity earlier this year to have been a part of a bipartisan effort to restore some of those voting rights that had been decimated only two years ago. But far greater efforts are needed, especially in light of the recent Supreme Court decision.The Voting Rights Act is the crown jewel of the civil rights movement. Therefore, it is imperative that the Act be reauthorized so that all Americans can enjoy its opportunities and protections.