Defending the Legacy of the Civil Rights Movement

August 7, 2025


 

I was honored to join legislative leaders from all 50 states and U.S. territories in Boston for a powerful rally against racial gerrymandering, standing in defense of the hard-won legacy of the civil rights movement. The demonstration took place on the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and highlighted the urgent need for fair and representative redistricting, the cornerstone of a just democracy.

The event was a powerful reminder of the ongoing threats to voting rights and the urgent need to uphold the Voting Rights Act’s legacy with action. Despite decades of struggle, communities of color are still being suppressed by manipulated electoral maps designed to dilute their political power.
Texas Senator Borris Miles has called this movement "rig-districting."

The rally took place as Texas Democrats left their state to prevent a vote on the Republican led legislature's attempt to redraw congressional districts that could hand the GOP as many as five new congressional seats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. This effort, which is backed by the Trump administration, threatens the balance of power in Washington, where Republicans currently hold the U.S. House by just three seats.

I joined Connecticut Deputy Speakers Pro Tempore Reps. Juan Candelaria and Chris Rosario, who are national Latino legislative leaders as we stood in solidary with Texas Democrats. 
 

Connecticut has taken a leadership role in this movement:

  • Rep. Juan Candelaria – President-elect, National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL)
  • Rep. Chris Rosario – Board Member, Board of Latino Legislative Leaders (BLLL)
  • Rep. Geraldo Reyes – Eastern Region Chair, NHCSL

We were proud to represent Connecticut House Democrats, NHCSL, and BLLL on a historic day and continue the fight to ensure fair maps for all. We won’t stop until every vote carries equal weight.
Massachusetts House Leader Carlos González acknowledged Connecticut’s strong leadership, specifically applauding Governor Ned Lamont as the first governor in the nation to meet with Texas House Democrats at the Governor’s Residence during the first day of their protest. It was a clear and powerful message: Connecticut stands with those defending democracy.