Jan 8, 2025 Story by: Editor
WASHINGTON — The NAACP, in collaboration with the Georgia State Conference of the NAACP, has issued a joint statement voicing deep concerns over recent changes implemented by Georgia’s Secretary of State regarding the digital voter registration cancellation process. The updated policy allows individuals to cancel another person’s voter registration online, a move the NAACP warns could severely impact voter access and participation throughout the state.
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson called for an immediate reversal of the policy in a strongly worded statement: “Make no mistake, this decision is a direct attempt to stifle the voices of Georgia’s most powerful, and historically disenfranchised voters,” Johnson said. “Let’s not forget that this is the same state Donald Trump attempted to steal nearly 12,000 votes from. We didn’t stand for it then, and we won’t stand for it now.
“The NAACP demands that Secretary (Brad) Raffensperger immediately reverse this process that is in direct violation of our fundamental right to vote. Whether it’s collective advocacy or taking it to the courtroom, we remain committed to exploring all pathways to right this wrong. Black voters are not backing down, and the NAACP is all in on ensuring our community has access to the ballot box in November.”
Georgia, a pivotal battleground state, is home to a population that is 33% Black, a demographic with the potential to play a decisive role in elections. In the 2020 presidential election, the Biden-Harris ticket secured victory in Georgia by fewer than 12,000 votes, with 88% of Black voters contributing to the outcome. As part of its extensive civic engagement program, the NAACP’s national office is supporting the Georgia State Conference and grassroots organizations nationwide to mobilize Black voters ahead of the upcoming elections.
“Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy; any action that impedes this fundamental right is a direct attack on our nation’s core values,” stated Georgia NAACP President Gerald Griggs. “The recent changes on the web portal allowing digital cancellation of voter registrations are not just a step backward but a leap into disenfranchisement for many Georgians. History has taught us that any obstacle to ballot access directly impacts Black and other vulnerable communities. Our state should be working to make voting more accessible, not more difficult.
“The Georgia NAACP stands firmly against any measure that restricts voter access and undermines the democratic process.”
The NAACP is actively involved in litigation to protect voting rights in states like Florida, Texas, Mississippi, and others where similar challenges persist. For more information on the NAACP’s efforts to safeguard elections and promote voter participation, visit their official website. Source: Albany Herald
