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John Legend has announced his new partnership with the NAACP to promote efforts across the country to protect voting rights.
The Grammy Award-winning artist and activist kicked off the partnership during a recent concert in Durham, North Carolina, asking fans to join him in taking a stand for voting rights by texting “LEGEND” to 62227, those who texted can receive mobile alerts from the NAACP.
Over the summer, the Supreme Court invalidated a portion of the Voting Rights Act that required certain states with a history of voter discrimination to receive federal approval before changing their election laws. The Voting Rights Act, originally enacted in 1965, was a cornerstone achievement of the 1960s civil rights movement. Activists have expressed concern that the Court’s decision will lead to changes in voting rules in some states that could be discriminatory.
“It is maddening to know that there are some who would enact legislation that limits the ability of some Americans to exercise their right to vote,” Legend said in a statement. “Generations have fought hard and even died for this right, and now is not the time for our country to move backwards.”
He adds, “All of our leaders should seek to have inclusive elections that reflect the true will of the people, no matter who they intend to vote for. The politics of exclusion are unacceptable. It’s time for all of us who believe in democracy and equal rights to take a stand.”
The crooner is committed to the issue and will continue to raise awareness on his additional tour stops throughout the South.
Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio
