Rachel Coltz’s Post

Title: The Power of One Vote: A Testament to Civic Duty In a world where every action seems to carry less weight against the backdrop of global issues, it's easy to underestimate the power of one individual's voice. Yet, a single photograph capturing a person without a hand casting their vote serves as a poignant reminder of the profound significance of our democratic rights. In the realm of democracy, voting is not merely a privilege; it is a sacred duty. It is the embodiment of the collective will of the people, the cornerstone of a society built on the principles of equality and representation. Every vote cast is a declaration of faith in the democratic process, a commitment to shaping the future of our communities, our nations, and our world. The image of a person overcoming physical challenges to exercise their right to vote resonates deeply because it symbolizes resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the power of one's voice. It underscores the idea that no obstacle, whether physical or metaphorical, should deter us from fulfilling our civic responsibilities. Moreover, it serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals throughout history to secure and protect our right to vote. From suffragettes advocating for women's suffrage to civil rights activists fighting against voter suppression, each battle fought and won has paved the way for greater inclusivity and participation in the democratic process. However, the fight for democracy is far from over. In an era marked by polarization, disinformation, and apathy, the importance of voting cannot be overstated. It is incumbent upon each and every one of us to educate ourselves, to engage with the issues that affect our communities, and to cast our ballots with careful consideration. Every vote matters. It is not just a numerical value added to a tally; it is a testament to our values, our hopes, and our aspirations for the future. It is a declaration of solidarity with those who have been marginalized and disenfranchised, a reaffirmation of our commitment to building a more just and equitable society. As we reflect on the significance of that single photograph, let us be inspired to take action. Let us encourage those around us to exercise their right to vote, to amplify the voices of the voiceless, and to hold our elected officials accountable. Together, we can ensure that the promise of democracy endures for generations to come. So, the next time you step into the voting booth, remember the image of that person casting their ballot with unwavering resolve. Remember that your vote has the power to shape the course of history. And remember that, in the words of Mahatma Gandhi, "The future depends on what you do today."

Are we really listening to what MLK had to say?: #MartinLutherKingJr #MLK #CivilRights #DrKing In 2020, the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday falls in a national election year, one that reminds us of the importance of voting rights, citizenship and political activism to the health of our democracy. King imagined America as a "beloved community" capable of defeating what he characterized as the triple threats of racism, militarism and materialism. The passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act, alongside the 1954 Brown Supreme Court decision, represents the crown jewels of the civil rights movement's heroic period. Yet King quickly realized that policy transformations alone, including the right to vote, would be insufficient in realizing his goal of institutionalizing radical black citizenship toward the creation of the "beloved community." King argued that justice was what love looked like in public. 2020 also marks the 55th anniversary of the passage of the Voting Rights Act, legislation that proved transformative for black citizenship, at least until the 2013 Shelby v. Holder Supreme Court decision that has helped enable the increase of voter suppression nationally. The most powerful way Americans can honor King now is through the pursuit of new national voting rights legislation that ends voter suppression and ID laws, allows prisoners to vote and automatically registers every 18-year-old citizen to vote. Contemporary voting rights protection in America represents a failure of imagination and a threat to democracy. Grassroots movements, such as Moral Mondays in North Carolina, have worked to show how state legislatures have utilized the post-Shelby landscape to ensure anti-democratic majorities at the expense of genuine democracy and active voter participation. Proposed legislation, such as the the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2019, seeks to restore the power of voting rights enforcement and other protections by establishing new rules that cover all states and allow for federal intervention in places with histories of active suppression over the previous 25 years. Additionally, the VRAA bill would offer increased protection for indigenous voting populations such as Native Americans and Native Alaskan populations. Democrats in the House of Representatives successfully passed the VRAA (H.R.4.) in December, although the bill has virtually no chance of approval in a Republican-dominated Senate where elected officials pay lip service to King's dreams even as they actively thwart their tangible political manifestations. Voting rights for black Americans, for King, represented an important step toward reimagining a nation free of racial violence, segregation, poverty and hate. Civil rights demonstrations in Selma, Alabama in 1965 galvanized support for voting rights legislation, which… #CivilRights #DrKing #MartinLutherKingJr #MLK

Many #Alabama voters are celebrating the state's new voting maps for congressional districts and the groups who worked to get them redrawn are reflecting on their journey. The battle for fair representation for Alabama voters of color made it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, twice. Nonprofits like Alabama Values said they have spent the last two years organizing and educating communities most affected by unfair maps. Alabama Values' Executive Director Anneshia Hardy said the fight "wasn't just in the courtroom," pointing out that it took months of town halls and other grassroots events to, as she puts it, give people "on-ramps to get involved," and they did. "That's one thing that we saw," Hardy emphasized. "Alabamians -- everyone down, from the grassroots organizers to just the grocery store owner or the beauty shop owner -- saying, 'OK, I understand how this is connected and I demand fair maps. And I have a voice and I can demand that my vote has power.'" She stressed Alabama Values played a critical role in shaping the narrative and messaging around redistricting by creating and disseminating assets like toolkits, fact sheets and videos for partner organizations to use. Alabama's 2nd and 7th Districts are now majority-Black, reflecting their populations. Hardy acknowledged the similar battles playing out in other Southern states, and hopes advocates there can examine Alabama's grassroots success to make their own headway. She noted it takes collective power, wider community and trusted organizations to make change, and there is more work to be done in Alabama as well. "I still know that the fight is not over," Hardy said. "That there's still work to be done now, in terms of educating voters on what having the 2nd District means, what it means to turn out, just making sure that the collective power and the synergy that was built around this fight will continue." Alabama Values has been documenting the on-the-ground fight in Alabama, Louisiana and North Carolina for fair maps for the last two years, for the documentary "The People's Voice: Redistricting Through A Community's Lens." In #Georgia, a federal judge has already ordered the state's congressional maps to be redrawn, ruling they violate the #VotingRightsAct. #SCOTUS #Gerrymandering #FairMaps

Sumter County, Alabama and the Origins of the Voting Rights Act - PDF: https://lnkd.in/gJzr3vqh Civil disobedience can be categorized by the group engaging in it, the type of action taken, the policy to which the protestors object, or the type of relief sought. Is the group well defined or amorphous? Are the actors engaged in violence, non-violent but unlawful behavior, or behavior that is lawful but at odds with custom? Do the protestors object to an unlawful policy or one that is lawful but perceived as unjust? Are the protestors ' aims well defined or amorphous? Are they narrow or broad? Are they clearly linked with the policy that the protestors challenge? Civil disobedience is an inherently blunt instrument. It can communicate broad messages, but not details. The confrontation at the Edmund Pettus Bridge is a perfect example. It originated with voter registration drives in Selma and Marion, Alabama.509 Jimmie Lee Jackson, a black demonstrator in Marion, was killed by an Alabama State Trooper.510 From the initial suggestion of a funeral cortege going from Marion to Montgomery came the idea of a Selma-Montgomery march for voting rights.511 The marchers thus knew they wanted black voting rights; the Alabama State Troopers and the Dallas County Sheriff's deputies knew they opposed black voting rights.512 Widespread television and newspaper coverage of what came to be called "Bloody Sunday" energized the nation, the President, and Congress to "do something" to ensure black voting rights.513 However, neither the marchers, nor the mounted wielders of billy clubs, nor the media reporters were communicating the details of what that "something" should be.514 Many acts of civil disobedience have resulted in remedial actions that proved to be ineffective because the unfocused nature of the actors' grievances led to unfocused or poorly implemented solutions that lacked popular support.515

🗳️ Every Voice Matters: Why You Should Join the Ranks of Voters! 🗳️ As we navigate the complexities of our world, I would like to share a truth that resonates deeply with me: our voices hold immense power in shaping the future. TLDR: Your vote defends civil liberties, fortifies democracy, and honors sacrifices. It's more than a ballot – a statement shaping our collective future. Let's stand together as guardians of democracy, shaping a future of freedom, diversity, inclusivity, and equality. 🌍✨ At the core of our democratic process lies the pivotal tool of voting – a privilege that not only empowers us but carries a weighty responsibility to drive change, uphold values, and champion causes that resonate within us. 🙌 Why being a voter matters: 1️⃣ Amplify Your Voice: Your vote is your unique voice amplified. It serves as your platform to stand firmly for what you believe in, advocating for social justice, championing environmental sustainability, or striving for economic equality. Every cast ballot sends a resounding message that influences the trajectory of our communities and our nation. 📣 2️⃣ Shape Our Collective Future: As voters, we possess the reins to steer our collective destiny. By actively participating in elections, we play a crucial role in shaping the policies and leaders that will define our future. Whether local, national, or global, our votes wield the power to sculpt our nation. 🌟 3️⃣ Honor Our Rich History: Countless individuals have fought tirelessly and sacrificed significantly for the right to vote. From the courageous suffragettes to the steadfast civil rights activists, their relentless struggles paved the path for us to exercise this indispensable democratic right. By exercising our voting rights, we pay homage to their legacy and ensure their hard-won battles were not in vain. 🙏 4️⃣ Foster Stronger Communities: Voting transcends individual expression – it's a catalyst for building resilient, inclusive communities. Through active engagement in the democratic process, we cultivate a culture of civic participation and open dialogue. By converging at the ballot box, we bridge divides and work collaboratively toward shared aspirations. 👥 5️⃣ Leave Your Mark: Every single vote holds significance. It's natural to feel like a drop in the ocean, but collectively, those drops create waves of transformation. Whether your preferred candidate emerges victorious, your vote symbolizes your values and convictions. It's a tangible manifestation of leaving your imprint on the world. 🌊 🌟 Let's stand together, exercise our democratic privilege, and ensure our voices promote democracy. Together, we possess the potential to forge a brighter, more inclusive future for all. 🌈✨ #EveryVoteCounts #BeAVoter #DemocracyInAction 🗳️💪

WHY VOTE IS NECESSARY? . . . Voting is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it is a fundamental right in democratic societies, enabling citizens to have a say in the governance of their country. Through voting, individuals can express their preferences and opinions, ensuring that their voices are heard in decision-making processes. Additionally, voting promotes civic engagement and At its core, voting serves as a mechanism for citizens to express their preferences and aspirations, thereby ensuring that their voices resonate within the halls of power. By exercising their right to vote, individuals actively engage in the governance of their nation, contributing to the formation of policies and laws that reflect the collective will of the populace. Furthermore, the act of voting fosters a sense of solidarity and communal identity among citizens. It serves as a unifying force, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life under the common banner of democracy. Through the shared experience of casting ballots, citizens reaffirm their commitment to the principles of equality, justice, and representation. Moreover, voting serves as a safeguard against the tyranny of the majority and the concentration of power in the hands of the few. By distributing political authority among the electorate, it promotes accountability and transparency within the governing institutions. In doing so, it helps to prevent the erosion of civil liberties and the emergence of authoritarian regimes. Additionally, voting serves as a catalyst for social change and progress. It provides marginalized communities with a platform to advocate for their rights and interests, thereby promoting inclusivity and diversity within the political landscape. Through the collective action of voters, systemic injustices can be addressed, and transformative reforms can be realized. In essence, the significance of voting cannot be overstated. It is not merely a civic duty but a sacred privilege bestowed upon citizens in democratic societies. As the poet Walt Whitman eloquently stated, "The ballot is stronger than the bullet." In a world fraught with challenges and uncertainties, voting remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of DEMOCRACY Expression of Preferences: Voting allows citizens to express their preferences and aspirations, ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes. Civic Engagement: It promotes civic engagement and participation, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility within the community. Representation: Voting enables the representation of diverse perspectives and interests within society, leading to more inclusive and equitable policies. Safeguarding Democracy: It serves as a safeguard against tyranny and the concentration of power, promoting accountability and transparency. #election #constitution #please vote

I need people to stop trying to tell me that we don't have a race problem here in this country. And since I'm already on one right now, I'm gonna also need folks to stop quoting Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have A Dream" speech if you're not willing to stand up and fight for what his dream actually was! Have you heard of the Voting Rights Act? This is the legislation that was passed in 1965 and was one of the most significant achievements of the civil rights movement. This Act undid decades of discriminatory Jim Crow laws and provided protection against racial gerrymandering. This is the legislation that was passed during the year that Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., the most prominent leader of the civil rights movement in the United States, launched a campaign of civil disobedience in Selma, Alabama, to bring national attention to the disenfranchisement of black voters in the South. Why am struggling with something that Dr. King fought for, and achieved, nearly 60 years ago? Because today, the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling that will effectively bar private citizens and civil rights groups from filing lawsuits. In other words, the right to sue for breaches of this specific law would effectively lie with the government alone. What?!?!? Their rationale is that the text of the Voting Rights Act does not explicitly contain language for “a private right of action,” or the right of private citizens to file lawsuits under the law. But, hey, let's just ignore 58 years of precedent and put this squarely back in the governments court. This is one of the dumbest things I've ever come across. Especially when we all know that the majority of challenges to discriminatory laws and racial gerrymandering have come from private citizens and civil rights groups. But, now, we're supposed to wait on our government to not just see & recognize the wrong that is being done, but to also file the lawsuit to fight against it? Yeah, ok. Sophia Lin Lakin, director of the Voting Rights Project at the American Civil Liberties Union, is quoted as saying, "For generations, private individuals have brought cases under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act to protect their right to vote. The 8th Circuit has put the Voting Rights Act in jeopardy, tossing aside critical protections that voters fought and died for.” This decision will obviously be appealed to the Supreme Court, and my prayer is that they uphold the original intent of the law when it was first passed. However, if this stupidity stands, it will be basically telling us that we can keep The Voting Rights Act on the books, just with no legal way for a person like me to use it. Allowing a ruling like this to stand flies in the face of all that Dr. King stood for and would effectively turn his dream into nothing but a passing vision.

Trump Visits Detroit Church in Bid to Court Black Voters Donald Trump made a significant appearance in Detroit on Saturday, attending a community forum at a Black church as part of his strategy to attract Black voters away from President Joe Biden. This rare visit to a predominantly Black community by a Republican presidential candidate highlights Trump's effort to secure votes in Michigan, a crucial battleground state. Trump's presence at the 180 Church on Detroit's west side drew a diverse crowd, including curious local residents and staunch supporters. Notably, the visit was met with minimal protest, a somewhat unexpected outcome given the city's historically Democratic leanings and Trump's previous remarks about Detroit. Four years ago, Trump had labeled Detroit as "corrupt," casting doubt on the integrity of the 2020 election results from the city. Seated on stage at a table flanked by local community members, including small-business owners and activists, Trump engaged in a dialogue moderated by U.S. Representative Byron Donalds of Florida, who is speculated to be a contender for Trump's vice-presidential pick. The panel discussed various issues pertinent to the community, with Trump emphasizing his economic and border-security policies, which he believes resonate with Black voters, particularly men. Both Trump and Biden have identified Michigan as a pivotal state in the upcoming election, understanding that every vote could be decisive. The Trump campaign sees an opportunity to sway Black voters, leveraging the former president's economic record and his stance on border security as key selling points. This outreach effort is part of a broader strategy to peel away a demographic that has traditionally leaned Democratic. Trump's appearance in Detroit is a calculated effort to demonstrate his commitment to addressing the concerns of Black voters and to challenge the Democratic stronghold in urban areas. By engaging directly with the community and addressing local issues, Trump aims to build a coalition that could tip the scales in his favor come November. As the election approaches, both campaigns are intensifying their efforts in Michigan, recognizing the state's critical role in determining the next president. Trump's visit to Detroit signifies a noteworthy attempt to bridge the gap with Black voters and make inroads in a community that has not historically been a stronghold for Republican candidates. Whether this strategy will pay off remains to be seen, but it certainly adds a dynamic element to the electoral landscape as November draws nearer. https://lnkd.in/dsZGzh7Z

National Voters' Day 2024: Shaping Democracy, One Vote at a Time In the heart of every thriving democracy lies the power of the people, and on January 25, 2024, we commemorate the 14th National Voters' Day. This day, established in 2011, serves as a poignant reminder of the role each citizen plays in shaping the destiny of our nation through the ballot box. A Nudge for Active Participation: Initially conceived to address a concerning decline in the enrollment of young voters, National Voters' Day has become an annual rallying call for civic engagement. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's foresight, coupled with the Election Commission's dedication, birthed an initiative that encourages and empowers the youth to actively partake in the democratic process. More Than a Date on the Calendar: National Voters' Day is not merely a milestone; it's an emblem of civic responsibility. As we celebrate our constitutional right to vote, it's crucial to reflect on the weight of this privilege. Our Constitution not only grants us rights but entrusts us with the responsibility to steer the course of our nation through informed and conscientious voting. The Significance of the EPIC: Beyond being a piece of identification, the Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) bestowed on this day symbolizes the empowerment of individuals. It's a tangible representation of our ability to influence the trajectory of our nation—a potent reminder that our collective choices echo far beyond the polling booths. A Call to Sustain the Spirit: National Voters' Day is not confined to a single day; it's a call to action that resonates throughout the year. Let us carry the spirit of this day forward, fostering a culture of informed, responsible voting. Our choices at the polls are not just individual; they are a collective expression of our aspirations for a united, prosperous, and inclusive nation. In conclusion, National Voters' Day is not about grandeur; it's about recognizing the silent strength embedded in each vote. As we celebrate this day, let's renew our commitment to democracy, embrace our civic duty, and recognize the profound impact our votes hold in shaping the narrative of our great nation. #NationalVotersDay #DemocracyInTheMaking #CivicEmpowerment #thepublicistandco