America 250: Presidential Message on the Anniversary of the Selma Marches

Today marks the 61st anniversary of the Selma Marches-a defining chapter in our Nation's righteous crusade for equal justice under the law.

Beginning on March 7, 1965, thousands of civil rights advocates marched along U.S. Highway 80 in Alabama, traveling from Selma to the State Capitol in Montgomery to demand an end to unjust practices that denied African American citizens the right to vote. It was a painful moment in our Nation's history, when discrimination and intimidation were used to deny Americans the freedoms promised in our founding documents. The marchers endured brutal violence, threats, and ridicule, but they did not back down. Ultimately, the courage of the marchers and their devotion to freedom set the stage for landmark reforms that strengthened and secured the right to vote for every American citizen.

As we mark 61 years since these solemn marches, we are reminded that free, fair, and honest elections are the bedrock of our constitutional Republic. Since I returned to office last year, my Administration has taken comprehensive steps to safeguard American elections by strengthening voter citizenship verification, promoting paper ballots, and banning foreign nationals from interfering in our elections. I am also committed to signing commonsense legislation that requires proof of identification to vote-a measure supported by a vast majority of Americans, including black Americans, and one that affirms the dignity and equal capability of all citizens to participate in our democracy, despite the radical left's efforts to portray it as discriminatory.

On this anniversary, we salute the brave individuals who reaffirmed the eternal truth that every human being is endowed by Almighty God with unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And as we celebrate 250 glorious years of American independence, we recommit to building a more just and prosperous Nation-one that protects the God-given dignity of every citizen, defends the rule of law, and preserves the blessings of freedom for generations to come.