University of New England

"Democracy and Power" series commemorates 40th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act

The NAACP, along with the University of New England and several other community organizations, are commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act with a series of events Oct. 6 - Nov. 10, 2005 titled "Democracy and Power."

Initially adopted in 1965, the  Voting Rights Act is generally considered the most successful piece of civil right legislation ever adopted by the U.S. Congress.

The Act puts into effect the 15th Amendment's permanent guarantee that, throughout the nation, no person shall be denied the right to vote on account of race or color. The equal right to vote is fundamental because it is preservative of all rights.

The "Democracy and Power" events scheduled over the next month also focus on related topics that include constitutional liberties, human rights, global democracy, and political empowerment.

Click for a printable (pdf) list of "Democracy and Power" events.

For more information, contact Colleen Rost-Banik, UNE multicultural affairs advisor, 207-602-2461

(Press release issued Oct. 5, 2005)