Manuel Lujan: “it is an honor to speak in support of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to protect the voting rights of all…”

“it is an honor to speak in support of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to protect the voting rights of all Americans. Our democracy is at its strongest when every American can participate and make their voice heard--something that our friend, our colleague, a mentor to many of us, the late John Lewis--it is what he fought for his entire life. But in too many communities across America, voter suppression efforts are making it harder for Americans to vote, especially Native Americans, who continue to experience geographic, linguistic, and legal barriers. That is why I am proud that the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act includes the Native American Voting Rights Act, which I was proud to introduce in August in the Senate and spent years fighting for in the House, developing this legislation with voting rights advocates across America. This much needed legislation would protect the sacred right to vote and reduce barriers to the ballot box for voters living on Tribal lands--vital progress to protect the sacred right to vote for all Americans. This past year, America has seen unprecedented efforts to restrict access to the ballot box, to make it harder to vote, and silence our voices, especially Native voices. It is unacceptable, and it is all the more reason why the Senate must pass robust voting rights legislation that empowers Tribes and Native American voters, because our democracy is strongest when everyone participates.…”