“Government of the people, by the people, for the people.”
Abraham Lincoln’s words are those that most of us recognize in some form or fashion. The phrase describes our nation’s democratic ideal, that government should have only the powers that citizens give it.
Voting is the way that we, ordinary people, give the government its powers. Take away our right to vote and you take away our democracy. Over the years however, there have been many struggles and challenges in providing all Americans the means to vote. Even today, not everyone can easily and freely exercise his or her right to vote.
This Law Day we encourage you to learn more about the importance of voting rights, and to reflect on how honoring every American’s right to vote is the only way to preserve our democracy for which so many have fought and given their lives.
Learn More
American Bar Association President Silkenat on why every vote matters:
Voting Rights – Wikipedia
Voting Rights – US Department of Justice