NEA President: Anniversary of January 6th insurrection highlights need for Congress to pass voting rights legislation

WASHINGTON - NEA President Becky Pringle released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the January 6th insurrection at the U.S. Capitol:

“One year ago, we witnessed an attack on our country and on our democratic institutions. As Congress worked to fulfill its constitutional obligation to certify the election results, Donald Trump and his allies fueled a violent insurrection intended to stop our democracy from functioning. Trump and his allies blatantly lied about the result of the election while attempting to overturn the will of the people in a desperate and dangerous attempt to hold onto power.

“Thankfully, our American democracy and our institutions were able to withstand one of the greatest tests in the history of our democratic republic. But sadly, the attacks on our democracy haven’t stopped. Over the last year, we have seen disinformation used to attack our freedom to vote as 19 states passed legislation making it harder for Americans to vote.

“As educators, we teach all students – no matter their race or ZIP code – that voting is a responsibility of citizenship and a sacred right that we must protect for all Americans. We know that our public schools are more than places of learning – they are the foundation of our democracy. And we see how our students are not only witnesses to the relentless attacks on voting rights nationwide – oftentimes they are targeted by the restrictive voting rights bills in states across the nation.

“That is why, as we reflect on what happened on January 6, 2021, educators remain steadfast in our mission to make sure our students of voting age – and all Americans - have full access to exercise their inalienable right to vote. 

“Congress must pass into law legislation ensuring every eligible voter can make their voice heard by ensuring they can cast their ballots safely and freely, while also preventing partisan politicians from sabotaging the results of our elections.

“Our students are depending on us. Congress must act. Now.”

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The National Education Association is the nation's largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.