In case you need a reminder of how sacred the right to vote is, we would like to direct you to the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute. Yes, the right to vote is so precious and fragile until a museum exists to display artifacts representing various milestones on the path to suffrage for all.
Located in Selma, Alabama, the museum and institute follow the “right to vote” journey from 1776 through the present. Tours include a visit to the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute along with the Slavery and Civil War Museum, the historic Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church and a walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Being at the site of “Bloody Sunday” is sure to be an emotional and awe-inspiring experience. Crossing the bridge will be time to reflect on the sacrifices that were made on that unforgettable day in 1965 when nearly 600 protestors were met by state troopers armed with billy clubs, tear gas and whips.
So much is at stake with the upcoming elections. The right to vote is not to be taken lightly. It appears that young people are heeding the call. After a few cycles of lackluster turnout of voters ages 18-29, the year 2020 seems to have motivated younger generations to get more politically involved. These folk are on fire for civic engagement. Whether it is the pandemic, unethical police or presidential debates that resemble kindergarten playgrounds, we are excited by the energy of this generation.
What is amazing is that the injustices and concerns that are pushing more young people to the polls in 2020 are pretty similar to the issues that have motivated voting rights activists throughout history. Will the cycle ever end….who knows? Right now, while the momentum is flowing, let’s focus on getting voters registered and getting them to the polls. There’s too much at stake to be distracted. We are the salt of the earth, but let’s take our cues from Lot’s wife who was turned into a pillar of salt for looking back at the burning city. We have to keep our eyes on the prize, no turning back.
As November 3 draws nearer to us, stay focused and encouraged. But just in case, you need some juice for your journey, take a quick trip to the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute. Admission starts at $4.50 for students. Visit the website for more information regarding tours and other attractions at the site.
“Hands that picked cotton can pick our presidents.” Sho nuff.
-Sojourner Justice
