NAACP Applauds SCOTUS Ruling to Protect Voting Rights

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
June 8, 2023
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org

NAACP President & CEO: "Let me be clear - a proper democracy cannot function without the Black vote." 

WASHINGTON – Today, the Supreme Court issued a resounding decision in Allen v. Milligan, a redistricting case involving a claim brought by Black voters challenging Alabama's 2021 congressional map for violating Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The plaintiffs in the case, including the Alabama State Conference of the NAACP, rightfully argued that Alabama's congressional map dilutes the voting strength of Black residents by "packing" a large number of them into a single district while fragmenting other communities. As a result of the decision, Alabama will be required to draw a new congressional map to include a second district with a Black majority.

NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson, released the following statement celebrating the victory for voting rights: 

"We commend our Alabama State Conference for their unwavering determination in exposing and challenging the pointed attempts to silence Black voters. Their resilience and relentless fight have resulted in the restoration of Black voters' voices and votes today. This decision is a victory for Black America and a triumph for our democracy. Let me be clear - a proper democracy cannot function without the Black vote. Today's Supreme Court decision acknowledges and aims to correct the relentless suppression of Black votes and voices that has been prevalent in this country for more than 150 years. Now, thanks to this ruling, Black voters in Alabama and supporters of the Voting Rights Act can celebrate. 

But this fight is far from over. The same malicious actors who are working to suppress Black votes in states like Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida are coming to a city near you. We remain committed in our fight for free and fair elections and the ability of Black Americans to elect leaders who will truly represent their interests - that's how we thrive. I encourage the Supreme Court to continue issuing opinions that reflect and protect the true opinions of the American people, not an extremist minority." 

NAACP General Counsel, Janette McCarthy Wallace, said of the decision:

"Today, the Supreme Court has affirmed and protected the fundamental, constitutional right that our ancestors shed blood, sweat, and tears to secure. A landmark decision that serves as a testament to the efforts of our dedicated advocates on the ground with the Alabama State Conference, who pursued legal action alongside other plaintiffs to challenge these insidious efforts to silence Black voters. Their determination has yielded a significant win for justice and because of their fight, Black voters in Alabama have reclaimed their rightful place in the democratic process, granting them the power to shape the future of our nation. Their voices will no longer be unlawfully silenced, but instead, serve as a catalyst for progress and positive change. The NAACP remains resolute in our commitment to advocate for the Supreme Court to uphold decisions that empower and uplift Black people. This victory fuels our determination as we forge ahead in the pursuit of a more equitable and just future that transcends racial disparities and fosters prosperity for all."

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About NAACP:

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st-century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.