NAACP Celebrates Victory in Mississippi Voting Rights Case

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 3, 2024

Contact: Alicia Mercedes, [email protected]

WASHINGTON - Yesterday evening, a federal court ruled in favor of the Mississippi State Conference of the NAACP in the Mississippi State Conference of the NAACP v. State Board of Election Commissioners case. The court has ordered the state to redraw its 2022 state legislative maps, finding that the current maps unlawfully dilute the voting power of Black Mississippians by excluding densely populated Black districts.

Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO, shared the following statement:

"We celebrate the decision made by the federal judges who ruled in this case and decided to stand firm in our nation's democratic values - especially during this crucial election year. This is not only a win for Black Mississippians, but a win for the culture and for the community. The Voting Rights Act was created to ensure equal and fair access to the ballot for all who participate in the political process. This remains true despite rampant attacks across the country by bad actors who work to dilute the Black vote. Today, democracy wins, Black voters win. The NAACP will remain a fierce proponent for civic engagement and Black voter empowerment in 2024 and beyond."

The NAACP filed the original suit in December 2022 after the Mississippi legislature failed to create districts that properly reflect the demographics of the state, thus hindering Black Mississippians of political representation. Plaintiffs in the case argued that the 2022 redistricting plans directly violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.

Charles V. Taylor, Jr., Executive Director of the Mississippi State Conference NAACP said:

"Although we hoped the court went further in their efforts to uphold voting rights, the Mississippi State Conference NAACP is pleased with today's decision. We will continue the fight to protect all Black voters across this state - our democracy depends on it."

As a result of the court's ruling, new Black-majority Senate and House districts will be created in the following areas:

• DeSoto County
• The city of Hattiesburg
• Chickasaw County
• Monroe County

For more information on how The Association is protecting voting rights across the country, visit our website.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.

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