The Constance Baker Motley Series on Racial Inequality is presented by the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) and its Diversity and Inclusion Committee, in collaboration and co-sponsorship with the Connecticut Bar Foundation (CBF) and James W. Cooper Fellows.
About the Program
The November 3, 2020 presidential election gave rise to voter fraud claims in several states, demands for multiple recounts, numerous legal challenges, and violence at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. These numerous voting fraud claims were refuted as unfounded and contrary to evidence. The 2020 election was confirmed to be “the most secure in American History” and free and fair, with no evidence of voter fraud. So why have over 30 states recently introduced legislation seeking to restrict voting access? Are these laws intended to ensure the integrity of the election process, or is their true purpose to limit citizens’ right to vote?
Join us for this 2-hour discussion that draws on the experiences of legal academics, elected officials, and political observers. These experts will explain how and why this legislation has become so widespread, and will suggest what can be done to ensure that voters are not disenfranchised and remain free to fully exercise their right to vote. The webinar will examine why this has become a national trend, how it affects us locally in Connecticut, and how it will impact future generations of voters. The panel will also explore how the states passing this legislation are using it to perpetuate racial inequality in voting rights and political access. Picking up from where the August 2020 Motley Series event on voting rights left off, this program will continue to analyze historical patterns and trends, and consider how systemic racism impacts voting rights and political access both on the national stage and in Connecticut. Our panelists are on the front lines of these voter battles in Connecticut, and have witnessed and studied how these policies seek to disenfranchise citizens, influence campaigns, and impact access to justice.
You Will Learn
• Why so many states are introducing restrictive voting legislation, the purpose and target of these laws, and how this legislation is being used to limit political power both nationally and locally;
• How the disenfranchisement of voters supports systemic racism, and specifically limits the political power and silences the voices of Black Americans and other people of color;
• Why this issue is relevant in Connecticut, and how this legislation could affect future generations of voters; and
• What we, as Connecticut citizens and legal practitioners, should know and do to promote a truly fair and free electoral democracy in our communities.
Who Should Attend
Any attorney interested in dismantling systemic racism, and any attorney interested in promoting full participation of American citizens in our political process.
Cost
Free
CT: 2.00 CLE Credits (Ethics)
Closed Captioning will be available during the seminar presentation for virtual attendees.