As United Methodists we “hold governments responsible for the protection of the rights of the people to free and fair elections” believing that “the form and the leaders of all governments should be determined by exercise of the right to vote guaranteed to all adult citizens.” (2016 Book of Discipline, ¶164A).

But last year, 19 states have passed more than 30 laws restricting access to the polls 19 states have passed more than 30 laws restricting access to the polls that have disproportionately disenfranchise Black and Brown citizen voters.

United Methodist Resolution 3378 “Racism and Economic Justice Against People of Color” emboldens us to live out the Beloved Community founded on strengthening voting rights, and free and fair voting protections and elections for all citizens, especially as a response to systemic racism. United Methodist have an opportunity to lift their voices as the Senate debates taking up legislation by January 17, 2022.

The Freedom to Vote Act (S.2747) and The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (S.4) are important steps to protect and promote the sacred right to vote. This legislation eliminate many anti-voter restrictions by improving ballot access, curbing partisan gerrymandering. They will set basic federal guidelines to ensure voters are given ample time and means to exercise their right to vote, encourage greater civic participation and promote transparency in our electoral, process ensuring that our democracy is responsive and accountable to voters.

 

3 Faithful Calls to Action!

• Call Your Senators at 1-888-885-1748!
  
  Call 888-885-1748 to be connected to your Senators. (Call twice to be connected to both Senate offices.) Tell them that you are a United Methodist person of faith and that democracy reforms are a moral issue for you. Ask them if you can depend on them to support The Freedom to Vote Act (S.2747) and The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (S.4)