Calendar item from the Allen County Republican Party:
Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 – 8/6/2015
50 years ago, on August 6, 1965 the Voting Rights Act was signed into law.
(July 28, 2015) – After the U.S. Civil War (1861-65), the 15th Amendment, ratified in 1870, prohibited states from denying a male citizen the right to vote based on “race, color or previous condition of servitude.” Nevertheless, discriminatory practices were used to prevent African Americans, from exercising their right to vote. During the civil rights movement voting rights activists were subjected to mistreatment and violence. On March 7, 1965, peaceful participants in a voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama were met by Alabama state troopers who attacked them with nightsticks, tear gas and whips; some were severely beaten. In the wake of the brutal incident the Voting Rights Act was passed. The 15th Amendment granted the right but the Voting Rights Act was necessary to keep the door open.
The Allen County Republican and Democratic Parties are working with several other organizations to celebrate this landmark legislation in a non-partisan rally. We will gather at Parkview Field to celebrate this historic law and honor those who fought for this right. There will be music, speakers, to the Federal Courthouse for a closing ceremony finishing with music.
When: August 6, 2015 at 6:30 PM
Where: Gather at Parkview Field (1301 Ewing St.)
Parking is free just south of the field in the Silver Lot.
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