Greetings from NBLSA's Advocacy Team

Warmest Greetings NBLSA Family,

In the fall, many of you engaged in election protection programming, supported campaigns and engaged in advocacy efforts regarding equality in higher education with our Fisher v. University of Texas rally. In February, NBLSA will join members of the 113th Congress and key non-profits organizations in Washington, DC to discuss issues of importance to the Black community and to raise awareness about necessary reforms. This year, NBLSA will be a catalyst for improvements in the election process by advocating on Capitol Hill for the prevention of the disenfranchisement of voters, and ensuring that future elections are not marred by the same kind of chaos that plagued the 2012 elections.

As more and more stories of voting problems emerge from last year's general election, NBLSA members are continuing to press the issue of ensuring Americans' voting rights through Congressional action, especially at a time when some states have implemented or are planning to implement new barriers to voting for certain groups, including seniors, students, low-income Americans, and members of our Armed Services. In November, we saw long lines at polling places, with many people waiting hours to vote. We are advocating for legislation to be introduced that will protect Americans seeking to exercise their right to vote. The right to vote is precious, almost sacred. NBLSA stands for those people who just want to exercise a right already guaranteed to them by the Constitution. Outlawing the poll tax 49 years ago does not mean we are finished protecting democratic freedom. New challenges to equal access still arise today.

NBLSA's 2013 Hill & Government Days will include an interactive training and workshop, a diverse group of distinguished panelists and a day of meetings on Capitol Hill and with key non-profit organizations. Additionally, students will be provided with the opportunity to meet and network with law students from across the country. As we are working with the Administration, we are offering more insight into Congressional as well as agency perspective in advocacy.

I encourage every chapter to send a representative to DC. I challenge every regional convention attendee to participate in NBLSA's legislative efforts. If you are unable to travel to DC or your regional convention, please consider scheduling a meeting with a local congressional office or hosting an information session on local Voter Reform efforts within your community. If you have questions, please contact me at ag@nblsa.org. I look forward to seeing you in Washington, DC.

In NBLSA Love,

Sydney Snow
NBLSA National Legislative Advocacy Specialist