C. A. Dutch Ruppersberger: “I stand in support of H.R. 9, the Voting Rights Act. August 7, 2006, will mark the 41st anniversary of the Voting Rights…”

“I stand in support of H.R. 9, the Voting Rights Act. August 7, 2006, will mark the 41st anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Voting Rights Act has been one of the most effective civil rights laws in granting access to the ballot boxes for all Americans. Congress enacted the Voting Rights Act in response to persistent and purposeful discrimination through literacy tests, poll taxes, intimidation, threats and violence. The Voting Rights Act has enfranchised millions of racial, ethnic, and language minority citizens by eliminating discriminatory practices and removing other barriers to their political participation. I want to make one point. I have been to Iraq and Afghanistan on many occasions in my capacity on the intelligence committee. U.S. soldiers of all races, religions are fighting every day in harsh climates to risk their own lives to bring basic freedoms to other people, and they are being told that they are doing what is right: fighting for freedom, justice, and liberty.”