Late last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, a sweeping democracy reform bill. Touted as a once-in-a-generation piece of legislation, the For the People Act paves the way for expanded voting rights, an end to partisan and racial gerrymandering, removal of dark money from politics, and other key democracy-strengthening measures.
In response to this milestone, New American Leaders and New American Leaders Action Fund Interim President Sara Le Brusq issued the following statement:
“The For the People Act is a lifeline for our democracy. But more than that, it is one of the most important ways Congress can dismantle white supremacy and systems of oppression.
“From the beginning, New American and BIPOC voters have been silenced in our democracy by voter suppression, big money, and special interests. The last few decades have only highlighted the growing power inequity between the pale, stale, and male establishment and our communities. The For the People Act is a critical step in righting these wrongs, putting power where it belongs—in the hands of voters.
“We are proud to see New American House members play a key role in the passage of this historic legislation. Now it’s time for the Senate to act. The Senate must immediately take a stand for the people and pass this urgently needed democracy reform bill. In doing so, they will break one of the pillars of systemic white supremacy, starting a new, inclusive chapter in our democracy that can be of, for, and by all people; no exceptions.”