In 2008, a record number of people of color cast their ballots. In fact, 15.1 percent more African Americans cast ballots in 2008 than in 2004. More than 3 million African Americans voted for the first time in 2008, and more than 17 million Americans voted for the first time in 2008.
35 states introduced voter photo ID laws in 2011 – laws that would disenfranchise more than 23 million eligible voters who don't have the kind of ID these laws mandate. To make matters worse, 17 states have passed legislation aimed at limiting the right to vote. They have made it harder to vote early, vote with an absentee ballot, and have put up more barriers to register voters.
I remember the struggle to secure the right to vote. Thousands shed blood, sweat and tears to ensure that all Americans had access to the ballot. Far too many even gave their lives fighting for this fundamental right. But these new photo ID laws would take us back to a time when this fundamental right was far too readily denied -- and we cannot afford to go back. It's up to all of us to protect our democracy by protecting voting rights for everyone. Go to http://www.protectingthevote.org/ and please share this important information with your friends, your family and anyone you know who is troubled by this assault on our right to vote.
Throughout Black History Month, DNC Black Caucus members will share updates about how the President’s accomplishments have benefited people of color, and highlight how we can continue fighting to move the country forward.
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