Blocks for felons to vote have been a major concern in US elections. While more and more felons can vote these roadblocks remain.
Voting Rights Act articles on Democracy Chronicles
The Voting Rights Act was a landmark piece of national legislation in the United States that prohibits discrimination in voting. It was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. Also see our section on American democracy as well as our articles on African-American voting rights, Voter Access, and Racism.
Jimmy Carter Tried to Make It Easier to Vote in 1977
In 1977 Jimmy Carter tried to ease voting for millions of Americans but the right stopped him using the same strategies it is deploying today.
Centennial of women voting rights: what women say today
It’s been a century since women obtained the right to vote. There has however been little focus on understanding their perspectives on this achievement.
‘Urgent and essential:’ How John Lewis’s death has renewed calls to protect voting rights
‘Urgent and essential’ is how the bill that would restore a crucial provision of the voting rights act promoted by the late John Lewis has been described.
Is Britney Spears allowed to vote?
Since 2008, Britney Spears has been under a conservatorship. It’s possible she’s joined thousands of Americans disenfranchised yearly by “incompetence” laws.
House Approves Measure to Rename Voting Rights Bill After John Lewis
John Lewis was an ardent advocate for voting rights for all. The House has voted to rename the H.R.4 in his name to honour his legacy.
Mitch McConnell’s complicated history on the Voting Rights Act
Of long-term senators, Mitch McConnell has perhaps the most complicated history with the voting rights act, one of an ideological distance from it with time.
‘An Embarrassment’: Trump’s Justice Department Goes Quiet on Voting Rights
The American Justice Department is empowered to prevent ballot box discrimination. However, it has gone quiet when it comes to enforcing voting rights.
Democrats urge action on voting rights as tribute to Lewis
John Lewis’s life project was protecting and expanding the right to vote. Democrats are encouraging Senate to take up a bill to honour his memory.
Rights group and celebrities urge Senate to act on voting rights
American democracy envisions ballot access but voting rights, especially African-American, remain gutted, requiring more activism for congress to act.