John Lewis, the esteemed congressman, voting rights advocate, and civil rights leader, passed away three weeks ago. Today, on the anniversary of the signing of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, we have an obligation and an opportunity to honor his legacy.

The 1965 Voting Rights Act (the VRA) sought to end the widespread and systematic disenfranchisement of Black voters across the country by requiring states with a history of racist voting restrictions to “preclear” new voting laws with the federal government. It was passed thanks to the tireless work of civil rights leaders and activists like John Lewis, and for over 40 years it prevented disenfranchisement around the country. 

Unfortunately, John Lewis lived to see the VRA gutted. In 2013, the Supreme Court struck down the VRA’s critical preclearance clause, leading to a proliferation of racist voting laws around the country over the past seven years. 

The fight to pass legislation that would restore the VRA -- the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act -- is already underway. If we all vote, we have a real shot at passing it in the next Congress, and you’ll be hearing from us about how you can help. But there’s something very simple and powerful you can do right now to honor John Lewis: Make sure YOU are ready to vote. Register to vote now:

Whether it’s Trump’s lies about mail-in voting in the midst of a pandemic or the closing of polling locations that disproportionately impact voters of color, we must acknowledge that voting in our country is under attack. 

It’s unprecedented times like these when John Lewis’ legacy and call to action matter most. As he put it, “The right to vote is precious, almost sacred.”

Take a few minutes to honor him now by registering to vote.

Thanks for all you do.

Sean Eldridge
Founder and President, Stand Up America

P.S. If you’d like to read more about the fight to restore the Voting Rights Act, click here.