Consider This from NPR The Supreme Court Case That Will Decide if Voting Rights Should Be Race-Blind
Oct 10, 2022
Eric Holder, former U.S. Attorney General and chair of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, dives into the pivotal Supreme Court case Merrill v. Mulligan. He discusses how this case could reshape the Voting Rights Act and its effects on Black voter representation in Alabama. Holder critiques the race-blind approach to districting and highlights the potential consequences for communities of color. With insights from his past experiences, he underscores the importance of civic engagement and mobilization in the fight for fair representation.
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Milligan's Lawsuit
- Evan Milligan, from Montgomery, Alabama, filed a lawsuit against redistricting.
- He argues that it weakens the power of Black voters, violating the Voting Rights Act.
Racial Polarization in Voting
- In Alabama, voting is racially polarized, with Black and white voters often choosing different candidates.
- This racial polarization is a key factor triggering the Voting Rights Act's protections.
Race in Voting Rights Act
- The Voting Rights Act considers race to combat racial discrimination in voting.
- Equalizing political power for marginalized communities requires acknowledging race.