The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was a really important law. Its goal was to help African Americans and other minority groups vote without facing unfair obstacles. Even though this law was passed, many problems still exist, showing that there’s more work to be done.

Key Parts of the Law:

1. Watching Voter Registration:

   • The law allowed the federal government to oversee voter registration in areas that had a history of unfair practices.
   • This faced a lot of pushback, making it hard to put into action in some states.

2. Ending Literacy Tests:

   • Literacy tests, which were often used to keep Black voters from voting, were banned.
   • However, some states found creative ways to keep these tests or created other barriers.

3. Federal Election Monitors:

   • The law allowed federal monitors to watch elections in places with a lot of discrimination.
   • These monitors sometimes faced threats and danger, making their job risky.

4. Approval Before Changing Voting Rules:

   • Some areas had to get federal permission before changing any voting laws.
   • A Supreme Court decision in 2013 weakened this rule, allowing states to make strict voting rules without federal checks.

Ongoing Problems:

• Strict Voter ID Laws: Some states have created tough voter ID laws that say you need specific IDs to vote. This can make it harder for minority voters.

• Voter Suppression Tactics: Some strategies, like removing names from voter lists, closing polling places, and cutting back early voting, often hurt communities with many minorities.

• Political Divides: Today’s political environment can make these unfair practices worse and help them continue.

Possible Solutions:

• Updating the Law: It’s important to renew and improve the Voting Rights Act to fight modern-day voter suppression tactics.

• Supporting Advocacy Groups: Local organizations can help teach voters about their rights and push for fair voting practices.

• Raising Awareness: More people knowing about these challenges can help everyone work together for fair voting in all communities.

Even though the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was a huge step forward, the battle for everyone to have equal access to the polls continues. We need to stay alert and keep making changes. The progress we’ve made is fragile and relies on everyone being active in protecting civil rights.