How to Make Sure Voting Rights Aren't Violated

The Voting Rights Act is considered one of the most successful Civil Rights legislation ever passed by the U.S. Congress. It guarantees the rights protected by the 15th Amendment which grant all Americans the right to vote regardless of color, race or previous condition of servitude. In addition, the Voting Rights Act specifies special provisions for specific jurisdictions around the country in order to strictly enforce these conditions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Educate yourself about your voting rights. Issues such as photo identification requirements at the polls, language assistance for minorities and restoration of the rights of formally incarcerated individuals are three of the more contemporary and controversial issues the Voting Rights Act addresses. Some issues are state mandated. If you want to exercise your voting rights, it is your job as a citizen to know what they are.
2. Join an advocacy group like the American Civil Liberties Union. Groups such as this host informational websites, publish fliers, newsletters and other educational materials to educate the public about their voting rights.
3. Become active in the an organization that advocates voter's rights. Simply joining an organization isn't enough. Read up on current issues that surround the Voting Rights Act. Participate in outreach programs or donate financial resources to organizations who work to secure the protection of voters' rights.
4. Educate others on the issues that surround the infringement of voters' rights. Motivate others to join organizations that advocate equality in the voting process. Target populations that are at high risk for violation.
5. Challenge any act that violates your right to vote. Report your complaints the Voting Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division at 1-800-253-3931.