“Our responsibility to build a more inclusive and representative democracy begins with the sacred freedom to vote,” says Issue One Founder and CEO Nick Penniman following the introduction of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act

In response to today’s introduction of H.R. 4, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, Issue One’s Founder and CEO Nick Penniman released the following statement:

“Our responsibility to build a more inclusive and representative democracy begins with the sacred freedom to vote. It is a noble cause that John Lewis dedicated his life to, and one we must carry on. Generations of Americans have fought and given their lives to secure this very freedom, and in the face of a formidable assault on voting in states across the country, we must commit ourselves to ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity for their voices to be heard. 

“The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act will prevent discriminatory voting policies and make sure that changes to voting laws that could discriminate against voters based on race or background are federally reviewed by restoring the Voting Rights Act, which has a long history of bipartisan support and was last reauthorized by the Senate unanimously in 2006. 

“Today, we call on Congress to come together and honor the legacy of John Lewis and all those who have devoted their lives to this sacred right by passing H.R. 4. It is the patriotic thing to do, and we look forward to working with our Democratic and Republican leaders to get this done.”