…To The Future Political Endeavors Of A Certain Member Of Generation Y

    To continue the discussion from the last blog piece, the Supreme Court also voted on a case involving the Voting Rights Act of 1965.  Now, in case you didn’t know, or forgot since you were in school, the Voting Rights Act ensured that African Americans, in addition to other minority groups, had the ability to vote in a free manner within the eleven southern states. The actual ruling on the case was struck down based on the fact that the “times have changed” in the United States.  Thus, the law is outdated and according to five [out of the nine] Supreme Court Justices felt that it was time to strike out this key provision within the Voting Rights Act (in turn, making it somewhat mundane as well as superfluous). It potentially opens up the door for states to discriminate against minority groups who vote, as this provision ensured their vote would be counted.  I’m still trying to understand this logic of the argument.  It is possible for states to pass laws that would require proof of residence and/or photo identification. It would be up to the courts to determine if these would fall under a form of “test” to determine if it is needed to vote – in which case, if it was then it would be unconstitutional. 

An individual told me that my right to vote has been minimalized since I am considered a minority.  I would love for someone to attempt to deny me my right to vote. I know the election laws, and I also know my rights as an American.  While I am still trying to understand the decision of the Supreme Court, and the dissenting opinion of the Court, I feel that the law is meant to be changed as society progresses (such as the Defense of Marriage Act). Perhaps it is time to reconsider this one and change the law instead of just striking out a section of the law. At the same time, it is just as important for all citizens [of every minority] are guaranteed their right for their vote to count. I personally don’t see a problem with having a citizen present a valid form of photo identification.  Again, I’m probably in the minority (and the pun was semi-intended).

      Now that I’ve discussed enough political news (and honestly, there is more news but I would hate to bore my readers with just that) it is time to discuss some personal news…yay!  Some of the things that I’m working towards is my political ambitions and also my acceptance to a graduate program.  After I take the GRE later this month, I hope to go to the University of Chapel Hill and I have my alma mater (Western Carolina University – GO CATAMOUNTS) as a back-up option.

            I might even make a run for public office soon. I’m not sure yet, so I’ll keep you wondering on that, ha-ha!