Rep. Adams on the Legacy of John Lewis

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, July 17, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), issued the following statement to mark the 6th anniversary of the death of Congressman John Lewis.

"Today, on the John Lewis 'Good Trouble' Day of Action, we honor the life, legacy, and enduring courage of Congressman John Lewis-a man who devoted his life to protecting one of the most fundamental rights in our democracy: the right to vote.

"John Lewis understood that the promise of America is only as strong as the ability of its people to participate in it. He marched, organized, and endured brutal violence so that future generations would have the opportunity to make their voices heard at the ballot box.

"The progress we have made did not come easily. Countless Americans sacrificed, struggled, and, in some cases, gave their lives to expand access to the ballot and make our democracy more inclusive. We honor their sacrifices by remaining vigilant in protecting the freedoms they fought so hard to secure.

"As we reflect on Congressman Lewis' legacy, we must also recognize that the work of upholding our democracy continues.

"Every eligible voter deserves an equal opportunity to participate in our elections, free from discrimination, intimidation, or unnecessary barriers. Every community deserves confidence that its voice will be heard and that every legally cast ballot will be counted.

"That is why I continue to support efforts to strengthen voting rights protections, including the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which would restore and strengthen protections that recent Supreme Court rulings have weakened.

"The best way to honor John Lewis is through action. I encourage every eligible voter to verify their registration, ensure their information is up to date, learn about voting requirements in our state, and make a plan to participate in upcoming elections.

"North Carolina voters can check their registration information at https://www.ncsbe.gov/registering/checking-your-registration

"On this Day of Action, let us recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of building a democracy where every person has the opportunity to participate in free, fair, open, and safe elections. John Lewis called voting 'the most powerful nonviolent tool we have in a democratic society,' and we must use it."