Voting is a key part of our democracy. Since the most recent election, we have seen increased efforts from around the country trying to infringe on Americans’ right to vote. This impacts every area of life in the U.S., without the ability to vote, we lose the ability for our country to work for everyone. Notably for the work that the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Club does, making it harder to vote results in fewer women voting. This means we lose our voices on issues like reproductive rights, child care, education, and employment. Not only do women, in general, lose their power as a voting block, but marginalized women such as women of color and queer women also lose their power to fight for their rights - rights that so often in this country have been violated. All people, especially women, deserve to have equal decision-making power in our country. It is up to you to protect the rights we hold dear in our democracy. Women’s issues are voting issues and voting rights protect women's rights. Thus, as a member of NFBPWC, I respectfully ask that you support H.R. 14: John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2023. This bill will take the first necessary step to protect voting rights in this country. But I ask that you not stop there. Please take every opportunity you get to protect and advance voting rights. Progress in our country relies on as many people having a voice a possible. Protecting our democracy requires that people like you, those working in government, ensure that the most basic tenet of it (voting) remains open to all. The moment to protect the foundation of our democracy is now. The means necessary to protect it are justified - please do what you can to protect voting. History is watching, which side will you be remembered on?

Women have long fought to have their voices heard. It was a key reason my organization, the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Club (NFBPWC) was created. Issues that women care about are in jeopardy and it is your job to ensure that every woman’s voice can be heard in those discussions. Issues such as the safety of women and the Violence Against Women Act, equal rights (via the Equal Rights Amendment), and care for mothers and families are currently at stake. These issues uniquely impact women from all walks of life. Making it harder to vote ensures that certain women have their voices left out of the conversation. We simply cannot rely on a select group of people, who are allowed to vote under the new restrictive voting bills that have passed recently, to look out for the interests of all women. Women’s rights are voting rights and voting rights protect women's rights. As a member of NFBPWC, I respectfully ask that you support H.R. 14: John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2023. In addition to supporting that bill, I ask that you support any bill that strengthens protections around voting rights in this country. Voting rights are under assault in this country. Consequently, rights women have fought for and rights women continue to fight for are also under assault today. It is crucial that you continue to uphold the basic right of voting that is the backbone of our democracy. Progress requires that all voices can be heard in our government.

I am writing to urge you to support and co-sponsor H.R. 14, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2023. This critical legislation holds particular importance for women across the nation. The right to vote is a cornerstone of our democracy, ensuring that every voice is heard and every perspective considered in the decisions that shape our nation's future. Women have played a pivotal role in the fight for equal voting rights and representation. This legislation, which seeks to protect and strengthen these rights, is of utmost significance for women who have long battled for equality in the political sphere. H.R. 14 addresses the ongoing challenges that hinder access to the ballot box, including discriminatory voting practices that disproportionately affect women, particularly women of color. By restoring and enhancing the Voting Rights Act of 1965, it ensures that all citizens can exercise their right to vote without fear of undue obstacles or suppression. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act is a crucial step towards preserving the democratic values we hold dear and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for women and all citizens. I believe that supporting this legislation is not just a matter of political significance but a moral imperative that reflects our commitment to equality and justice. I kindly request that you consider the needs and concerns of women across the nation and lend your support to H.R. 14. Your endorsement of this vital legislation will have a positive and lasting impact on the rights and freedoms of women in our country. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued dedication to serving our community and our nation. I look forward to hearing about your support for H.R. 14 and your ongoing efforts to protect the fundamental right to vote.