NAACP Celebrates Victory Reversing Alabama Voter Purge Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 17, 2024

Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org 

WASHINGTON – This week, an Alabama federal judge ruled in favor of the NAACP and civil rights groups, halting an illegal, last ditch effort to purge thousands of eligible Alabama residents from voter rolls. The program, which had the potential to disproportionately  disenfranchise Black, and other vulnerable voters, has now been put to an end.

Janette McCarthy-Wallace, General Counsel of the NAACP, share the following response to the ruling:

"For over 115 years, the NAACP has been fighting for the right to vote. The suppression tactics may look different, but the intent remains the same - silencing Black, and other vulnerable voices. We are proud to advocate on behalf of Alabamians to ensure that the law is followed, and the right to vote protected. Every vote is a voice, and we refuse to be silenced."

Last month, the NAACP and the Alabama State Conference of the NAACP filed the lawsuit alongside other civil rights groups to defend four Alabama voters impacted by the purge. Shortly after the motion for preliminary injunction was filed, the Department of Justice (DOJ) , also filed a lawsuit against the state. 

The NAACP is currently litigating nearly a dozen election-related cases across the country in states like Pennsylvania, Georgia, Wisconsin, Ohio and more. Our litigation strategy is part of the broader, $20 million effort to educate, engage, and mobilize Black voters while protecting their access to the ballot box. For more information, visit our website.

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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.