August 6, 2014

Voting Rights Act Signed Into Law Today in 1965


African Americans demonstrating for voting rights in front of the White House as police and others watch; sign reads “We demand the right to vote everywhere.” Warren K. Leffler/Library of Congress

President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law today in 1965. Conservatives began work to chip away at it immediately, culminating in the 2013 Supreme Court decision, Shelby County v. Holder which, in the New York Times‘ words, “effectively struck down the heart of the Voting Rights Act.”

President Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act as Martin Luther King, Jr, and other civil rights leaders look on. Yoichi Okamoto/LBJ Library

 

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We didn't know what to expect when we told you we needed to raise $400,000 before our fiscal year closed on June 30, and we're thrilled to report that our incredible community of readers contributed some $415,000 to help us keep charging as hard as we can during this crazy year.

You just sent an incredible message: that quality journalism doesn't have to answer to advertisers, billionaires, or hedge funds; that newsrooms can eke out an existence thanks primarily to the generosity of its readers. That's so powerful. Especially during what's been called a "media extinction event" when those looking to make a profit from the news pull back, the Mother Jones community steps in.

The months and years ahead won't be easy. Far from it. But there's no one we'd rather face the big challenges with than you, our committed and passionate readers, and our team of fearless reporters who show up every day.

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