Two Events Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Section 203 (the Language Provisions) of the Voting Rights Act

Announcement via email:

The ACLU SoCal, ALC, CA Common Cause, and PANA are excited to share that registration is now open for “More Voices, Stronger Democracy: The 50th Anniversary of Section 203,” a statewide summit on language access and voting rights in California.

First up: The Pre-Summit Webinar (virtual)

Get grounded in the history, impact, and future of Section 203 before the Summit begins. This virtual event will feature reflections from leaders who helped secure the original passage and reauthorizations of this landmark provision of the Voting Rights Act. Panelists will offer unique perspectives on the law’s implementation, enforcement, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for building a truly multilingual democracy.

Panelists: 

  • Henry Der, former Executive Director of Chinese for Affirmative Action
  • Karen Narasaki, former Commissioner, US Commission on Civil Rights
  • Rosalind Gold, Chief Public Policy Officer with NALEO Educational Fund
  • Jim Tucker, Section 203 Enforcement Attorney
  • Angelo Ancheta, Senior Research and Policy Counsel with Demos

Webinar Date: August 6, 2025

Register Herehttps://tinyurl.com/203-webinar

More Voices, Stronger Democracy: The 50th Anniversary of Section 203 (in person)

We’ll be bringing together advocates, organizers, elections officials, and community leaders to reflect on 50 years of Section 203, elevate the voices of limited-English proficient voters, and strategize for the future of multilingual democracy. Panels will cover implementation, new research, advocacy, and organizing efforts from across the state.  

  • Opening Remarks: Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., California Secretary of State
  • KeynoteXavier Becerra, Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services; Former California Attorney General

Summit Date: August 26, 2025

Location: The California Endowment, Sacramento

Event Info & Registrationhttps://tinyurl.com/Section-203

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