New York – The violent insurrection at the United States Capitol Building, one year ago today, was a direct assault on our democratic process. It was nothing less than an attempt to disrupt the peaceful transition of power in a presidential election and an act of sedition.

JCPA believes that the bedrock of American liberty is a strong, thriving democracy, and an engaged citizenry. For 78 years, JCPA has worked to ensure that voting is fair and accessible. JCPA policy resolutions, which represent a Jewish community consensus, assert this mission: “It is the duty of all who cherished democracy to ensure that all eligible citizens are offered the opportunity to vote and have their votes counted.” (JCPA Voting Rights Resolution, 2017)

“Our nation can only live up to its democratic ideals when all are confident that they can vote freely and without undue hardship for the candidates of their choosing. Polling places must be equally accessible, safe, orderly, and free from intimidation. All votes must be counted in a fair and transparent manner,” said David Bohm, JCPA Chair. “These core democratic ideals must be fiercely protected by all of us, regardless of political persuasion or religious affiliation.”

JCPA calls upon all government leaders to take action to carry out these ideals and principles by passing critical voting rights legislation at this historical moment.