Congress must support voting rights for all

Re: “Where are voting rights and justice reform?” Nov. 14 commentary

LZ Grandson quotes Nikole Hannah-Jones as expressing concern about Black Americans’ ambivalence towards today’s political parties. One party is seen as “actively trying to legislate against their rights,” and the other is described as not doing much for them, but at least it is not trying to “peel back their legal citizenship rights or take away their right to vote.” He notes quite accurately that “Senate Republicans recently stopped the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act from even coming to a vote.” He also denounces Democrats for giving lip service only in regard to voter’s rights and police reforms. And, yes, it would be an egregious mistake for Democrats to ever take the support of people of color for granted.

My fear is not the lack of concern, ongoing effort, and commitment within the Democratic Party for issues regarding social justice. Rather, it is a party willing to use dog whistles and fear tactics to deliberately and blatantly stop President Joe Biden’s agenda on these important issues without impunity.

Sen. Mitch Mcconnell promised to block President Barack Obama’s agenda at every turn. And now, Mcconnell seems determined to lead the Senate down the same path, that is, block everything that leads to more justice and equity for all Americans.

The Democratic Party needs to continue to strive for values of voting rights for all Americans, and many other needed reforms. So let’s all step up and show our ongoing support and commitment to these important above-named efforts.

Democrats are not blameless, but we should not underestimate the determination of the Republican party to block all things that our Democracy needs to survive.

Jean C Lindsey, Denver

I think LZ Granderson’s frustration with legislative inaction is misplaced. Instead of faulting Democrats, the blame should land squarely in the laps of the Republicans. If Democrats replaced enough Republican congressmen, obstructionists like Sens. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema would be no obstacle to the legislation he desires.

Tony Miller, Castle Rock