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NAACP Backs Virginia Redistricting Effort to Protect Black Representation and  Defend Democracy 

Richmond, Virginia – The NAACP announced its full support for fair redistricting efforts underway in Virginia to  protect Black political representation and democracy, and to ensure that every voter’s voice is heard. The  support for redistricting efforts in Virginia follows the Association’s litigation against the States of Texas and Missouri over their unconstitutional attempts to manipulate voting maps and disenfranchise Black  voters. 

Across the country, we are witnessing a campaign to suppress Black political power through racial  gerrymandering, voter intimidation, and legislative manipulation. The ultimate goal of that campaign is to  redefine the role of the government so that it serves the wealthy few. From Virginia to California, the NAACP is  challenging these anti-democratic tactics head-on through mobilization, litigation, and education to ensure  every community has a fair voice in our democracy. 

“The right to vote means little if the power of that vote is stolen through unfair maps,” said Derrick Johnson,  President and CEO of the NAACP. “Redistricting is not a partisan issue — it’s a democratic one. When Black  communities lose the ability to elect candidates who represent our needs, our entire democracy suffers. The  NAACP will continue to fight, in Virginia and across the nation, to make sure our maps – and our democracy – reflect people. Voters choose our politicians. Not the other way around.” 

The NAACP Virginia State Conference has been at the forefront of the fight to protect democracy in the state.  In the lead-up to the November 4 election, the NAACP launched a comprehensive campaign to mobilize Black  voters. This multifaceted initiative includes recruiting and training volunteers, activating a robust legal network,  voter education, SMS campaigns, phone banking, canvassing, and community partnerships. 

“The people of Virginia deserve fair maps that reflect our true diversity — not ones drawn to dilute our power,”  said Rev. Cozy Bailey, President of the NAACP Virginia State Conference. “Our mission is simple: to make  sure Black voters in Virginia are seen, heard, and represented. Redistricting must protect democracy, not  partisan interests.” 

Fair maps and free elections are the foundation of democracy. The NAACP will continue to stand in that gap,  defending every Black voter’s right to be heard and every Black community’s right to be represented. To learn  more about how NAACP is fighting to defend democracy, visit our website, naacp.org. 

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ABOUT THE NAACP VIRGINIA STATE CONFERENCE 

Founded in 1935, the NAACP Virginia State Conference is the oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization in  the Commonwealth, overseeing over 100 NAACP branches, youth councils, and college chapters. The NAACP Virginia  State Conference is focused on being the preeminent voice of Black Virginians and advocating for policies and programs  to benefit Black Virginians and people of color. You can read more about the NAACP Virginia State Conference’s work by  visiting www.naacpva.org. 

NAACP Virginia State Conference