NAACP Applauds SCOTUS Victory for Voting Rights in Key Moore v. Harper Decision
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 27, 2023
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON – Today, the Supreme Court firmly rejected the so-called "independent state legislature" theory in a decisive victory for voting rights and democracy, which will prevent extreme state legislatures in their attempts to silence voters and overrule the legal procedures ensuring that everyone can execute their right to vote in a free and fair election. NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnsonreleased the following statement reaffirming the Association's commitment to protecting voting rights for all:
"The Supreme Court's decision is a vital protection against ongoing, malicious attempts to silence Black voters. Make no mistake - there are lawmakers across the country who are determined to strip Black Americans of their fundamental right to make their voice heard at the ballot box. Leaders at every level must do everything in their power to preserve our democracy and remain vigilant against every attempt — clear or cloaked — to undermine Black voters.
"The NAACP stands with our North Carolina State Conference leaders and applauds their righteous fight in this case to protect both our democracy and our rights. We call on Congress to finish the job and take decisive action. We need legislation that will establish uniform voting rights standards and address the ongoing injustices that have hindered and disenfranchised Black voters for generations. Let's be clear — if this Congress will not do it, we must remember that when we head to the ballot box to elect a Congress who will."
NAACP and the NAACP North Carolina State Conference joined other civil rights, social justice and labor organizations as well as bar associations in filing an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in October 2022.
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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.