Brady Horine is a legislative and policy coordinator on the Advocacy team. In his role, he supports state Leagues with their legislative advocacy efforts around the policy areas of the Making Democracy Work campaign.
While the contributions of men in the Civil Rights Movement have been widely documented, women’s contributions are often overlooked. Figures like Fannie Lou Hamer, Ella Baker, Diane Nash, and Gloria Richardson were just as vital as men like Martin Luther King Jr. And John R. Lewis in securing voting access. Their stories remain deeply relevant today, as many of the barriers they fought against have persisted or resurfaced in new forms, reminding us that vigilance in protecting voting rights is as critical as ever.
As we confront the challenges posed by the Electoral College and its implications for fair representation, the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact stands as a beacon of hope for a more democratic electoral system, one that aligns with the core principles of equality and voter empowerment.
The legislative landscape of 2023 was a whirlwind of activity, with new laws that both empower and challenge democracy on the fronts of voting rights, reproductive rights, and so much more. Our report "Trends from 2023 Legislative Sessions" shows the ever-changing legislative landscape, shedding light on how things are changing across the country at the state level of government.
From January – August 2023, state legislatures nationwide passed various bills into law. While following these developments, the League noticed several important trends around voting rights and election administration.
Reflecting on the Voting Rights Act of 1965, it is crucial to acknowledge the hard work of diverse coalitions and dedicated activists who fought tirelessly for its passage. Their unwavering commitment to fairness and justice moved our country towards a more inclusive and democratic society.
Voter ID laws have long been debated in the United States. While supporters argue that voter photo ID laws are necessary to prevent voter fraud and ensure the integrity of elections, reality tells a different story. Not only do these measures disproportionately impact Black, Native, elderly, and student voters, but they also fail to effectively address any real issues related to election integrity.
Dolores Huerta is a civil rights activist and labor leader who has dedicated her life to fighting for democracy in the United States, both in the government and the workplace. Growing up, she witnessed the struggles of farm workers and saw firsthand the injustices they faced. Her experience motivated her to become an activist and work towards creating a more democratic society.
