In what seems to be the world’s leading and most equitable democracy, a quiet crisis is brooding-one that undermines the very principles this country is founded on. Voter disenfranchisement, a calamity on the ideals of universal suffrage, remains an issue that demands our immediate attention. This injustice impacts Americans from all political belief systems and undermines the integrity of our democratic process. The thought of living in a society I have no part in shaping seems almost dystopian. This is the harsh reality for many Americans.  

Voter disenfranchisement refers to the barriers that are used to prevent individuals from exercising their right to vote. There are many tactics used to enforce these barriers: strict voter ID laws, purges of voter rolls to reduce the number of polling locations in marginalized communities, and the disenfranchisement of individuals who have been convicted of felonies. Either by design or by coincidence, these measures disproportionately impact minority populations, the elderly, students, and those with lower socio-economic status. 

It is appropriate to question the fairness of a system where the ability to vote-a right that is granted in the Constitution and was fought for in the streets and courtrooms throughout American history-is dependent on the color of one’s skin, socio-economic status, or zip code. We are still living through the remnants of Jim Crow-era tactics disguised as a means to combat voter fraud-a rare phenomenon.  

The tangible effects of voter disenfranchisement are undeniable and clear to see. The disenfranchisement of voters impacts the outcomes of elections and, in turn, impacts the policies that govern our lives. When large sects of the population are marginalized, can elected representatives justly reflect the will of the people? The implications of voter disenfranchisement reach far and wide, it creates a distrust of governmental institutions and denotes the theme of the United States standing as a symbol of democracy on the global stage.  

What can be done to combat this crisis? First there must be a universal effort to educate the public on the importance of voting rights and the implications of stripping them away. Knowledge is a deterrent of apathy and can bolster citizens to demand change.  

Second, legislative action is crucial. Congress should consider implementing measures that standardize voting practices across states. This could ensure that all Americans have access to the ballot box, no matter where they live. Political action could include the restoration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, its preclearance provisions in particular. Revisions were introduced in 2013 but were promptly struck down by the supreme court. This led to the resurgence of voter suppression laws.  

In addition, states must be proactive in their efforts to expand access to voting. Measures like automatic voter registration, same day voter registration, and an expansion of early voting could prove beneficial. Moreover, the disenfranchisement of felons, who have served their time and reintegrated into society, must be revised and reformed. How can there be equal representation when there is not equal access to suffrage? 

Finally, the fight against voter disenfranchisement must include engagement from all sectors of our society. This includes individuals, advocacy groups, the private sector, and the media. Strides toward equity demand a collective effort to protect the power of the vote and ensure that every voice is heard.  

A cultural shift is also required to combat this issue. We must commit to dismantling the systemic inequalities that compound the marginalization of certain groups. We must also educate our youth about the importance of civic engagement and the history of voting rights in our county. At the individual level, it is imperative that all Americans are advocates of equal voting rights.  

The path toward a more inclusive democracy will be met with its own challenges. However, the steaks could not be higher. In the words of President Lyndon B. Johnson, “The vote is the most powerful instrument ever devised by human beings for breaking down injustice and destroying the terrible walls which imprison people because they are different from others.” We are the stewards of democracy; it is our duty to wield that power wisely. We must ensure that suffrage is accessible to all, thus preserving the true purpose of our democracy for generations to come. Our democracy is the strongest when everyone has a say.