This has been a year we will never forget – one that will go down in history! We witnessed the first Black and Asian American woman Vice President of the United States, and the first Black senator in Georgia take office. We witnessed and were a major force in orchestrating the greatest voter turnout in the history of our country in the most secure and accessible election to date, and we began connecting again in the field after a year of lockdown.  

However, as we reflect on 2021, we must never forget those who risked their lives on January 6, fighting to save our democracy against the horrifying and unprecedented attempt to overturn the 2020 election. This was followed by the passage of voting laws reviving the days of Jim Crow. Indeed, this was a wake-up call for our country, and we have risen to the challenge.  

Instead of being dismayed, we are fighting back. We are fighting back against egregious anti-voter laws, gerrymandered maps, climate injustice, and attacks on reproductive rights. We marched to the White House and demanded that the President act on voting rights now and protect the freedom to vote for everyone. 

I am proud to serve such dedicated, tenacious, civil advocates. I believe in leadership that serves from the front, from behind, or from anywhere in between. The work we are doing together is critical not only for the League’s mission but also for protecting our democracy.  

Looking ahead to 2022, we will continue to push for federal voting rights legislation and to fight for fair maps. Next year is a mid-term election year, and the League is ready to educate and empower millions of voters via VOTE411.  

Please continue to exercise caution because COVID is still here. Have a happy new year! Stay safe and wear your mask.