Posted Friday, January 3, 2020 1:15 am

2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the League of Women Voters. Voting rights is a fundamental right and all eligible voters should have the equal opportunity to exercise that right. The LWV is dedicated to ensuring that our elections remain free, fair and accessible.

Why does this matter and what is the League doing? Voting is a sacred right. Since 1920, the League has fought to protect the rights of eligible voters and expanded access for those who have been left out of our democratic process. LWV volunteers spearhead effort to enact common-sense voting reforms and are the first to fight back when voters’ rights are threatened. The LWVUS protects millions of voters every year through aggressive advocacy and education efforts, and the LWV has been at the forefront of major voting rights court cases across the last decade.

What are the LWV priorities?

Expanding access is key. LWV fights to increase voters’ access to the polls, including expanding early voting, promoting automatic and on line voter registration.

Redistricting is important. Congressional district and government legislative bodies should be apportioned substantially on population. The LWV opposes partisan and racial gerrymandering that strips rights away from voters.

Money in politics is a major concern. Elections should be about the voters not big money interests. It is time to limit Super PACS and secret donors to protect representative democracy.

Fighting voter suppression is another priority. The League challenges all efforts and tactics that threaten our democracy and limit the ability of voters to exercise their right to vote.

The League urges citizens to demand a hearing on the For the People Act and encourages all citizens to contact Sen. Todd Young and Sen. Mike Braun today to support this hearing.

It is important to restore the Voting Right Acts. Six years ago, the Shelby vs Holder decision struck down the protections of the Voting Rights Act which led to unprecedented levels of voter suppression across America. But soon, the U.S. House will be voting on HR 4, the Voting Rights Advancement Act, which will not only restore the original VRA but will also provide greater transparency and protection of voters on the electoral process.

Access to the ballot box should not be a partisan issue. Passing the Voting Rights Advancement Act ensures that every voter-regardless of where they live — has equal access to the ballot box and is protected from unfair laws and practices that make it harder for people to vote.

Congress can pass HR 4 and ensure that the future of American democracy and the rights of voters remain strong. Join the League in contacting our representative, Congressman James Baird and ask him to vote yes on HR 4.

The League of Women Voters, open to men as well as women, is a nonpartisan, multi-issue political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government. For information about the local Montgomery County LWV, visit the website at www.lwvmontcoin.org or send a message to LWV, P.O. Box 101, Crawfordsville, IN 47933.