Titus Celebrates Black History Month

Statement

Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada's First District released the following video statement in honor of Black History Month. Below are her remarks:

"Hello, I'm Dina Titus, your Congresswoman from the First District of Nevada.

"This February, I hope you will join me in celebrating Black History Month by attending various events throughout the Las Vegas Valley which help recount this important aspect of the American story.

"Let us also be sure to remember that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of the Voting Rights Act. By prohibiting barriers to political participation and outlawing efforts to suppress the right of minorities to vote, this landmark legislation ensures that all eligible Americans have equal and fair access to the ballot box.

"It was a sad day in our country however when the U.S. Supreme Court last year rolled back voter protections in states with a history of voter discrimination. Since the decision last summer, seven states have enacted controversial laws that severely impact the voting power of seniors, young people, and minorities.

"That's why I joined a bipartisan group in Congress in sponsoring the Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2014, led by Civil Rights hero, Rep. John Lewis of Georgia, which would reinstate these voter protections through federal oversight.

"It is critical that every American has an equal voice in the direction of our nation. We should not be making it more difficult for Americans to exercise the right to vote. Instead, we should be doing everything we can to improve access and increase participation in the democratic process.

"Let us stand proudly on the shoulders of such great Civil Rights heroes as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rep. John Lewis, as well as Nevada community leaders like the late Bob Bailey and his wife Anna, the unsinkable Hannah Brown, the unstoppable Ruby Duncan, the well-respected Senator Joe Neal, and many others who have fought for equal opportunity for all.

"I hope you will consider me an advocate and a partner in this important endeavor as I continue to work with my Democratic colleagues to strengthen the Voting Rights Act, grow our middle class, expand access to high quality education, and promote policies that empower all people with the skills and tools they need to succeed.

"I'm pleased to recognize Black History Month and hope you will join me in celebrating the many contributions the African American community has made in District One and throughout our country.

"Thank you."

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