Washington State just made it easier for formerly incarcerated people to get their voting rights back and register to vote. Under the new law, formerly incarcerated people will get voter registration forms and instructions on how to become a registered voter after completing their sentences. The bill was sponsored by Washington State Senator Manka Dhingra, the first Sikh woman elected to any state legislature in the United States and a New American leader working to create a more inclusive democracy.
Attorney General William Barr has proven that he is more than willing to carry out the President’s hardline immigration policies. This week, he took them even further by revoking the right of asylum seekers who enter the country illegally to ask an immigration judge for release on bond. This means that some asylum seekers could be detained indefinitely while their cases play out in immigration courts. It’s yet another assault on the dignity and rights of people fleeing persecution and seeking refuge in the United States.
The United States Senate has the chance to hear and vote on H.R. 1, the For the People Act, legislation that will usher in a wave of progressive democracy reform. Yet despite having more than a month to act, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell hasn’t even granted a hearing for this bill that is critical to our country’s future. Join people like us in urging our Senators to take action on this legislation and create a more inclusive democracy. Sign our petition today to commit to calling your Senators and asking them to support the For the People Act!
We know that women of color and other #PeopleLikeUs hold enormous political power and are key to winning any election. On April 24th, 2019, we’ll be in Houston, Texas for the She the People Presidential Forum, an event that recognizes the power we hold in our democracy and focuses on issues important to women of color. The event will be covered on NBC—be sure to tune in to hear from 2020 presidential candidates Senator Cory Booker, Former Secretary Julián Castro, Representative Tulsi Gabbard, Senator Kamala Harris, Senator Amy Klobuchar, former Representative Beto O’Rourke, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Senator Elizabeth Warren on how they will handle issues of racial, economic, gender, and social justice.
When #PeopleLikeUs run and stand up against hate and divisive policies, we all win. That’s why we are also hosting a Step Forward training the morning before the She the People Presidential Forum in Houston to help empower the next wave of inclusive leaders. RSVP here to learn how to run for office and win or lead a campaign.
Looking for more information on how to change the face of leadership? Join NAL founder and president Sayu Bhojwani April 23rd at Rice University for a conversation with Houston City Council candidate Raj Salhotra and Sugarland, Texas City Council candidate Nabila Mansoor on representation, diversity in politics, and Sayu’s book, People Like Us. Register today!