Statement from Greenpeace USA co-Executive Director Ebony Twilley Martin on voting rights legislation and the Build Back Better Act:
“This year we saw record droughts, killer heatwaves, massive floods, attacks on our freedom to vote, and ridiculously gerrymandered districts devastate families across the country. It’s time for Congress to do what we elected them to do–create solutions that build resilience in this ongoing pandemic, address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, strengthen our democracy, and form an economy that puts people first. This means passing both the Freedom To Vote Act as well as the full Build Back Better Act before going on recess. We cannot tackle these interlocking crises in isolation.
“As Senators try to delay the votes on transformative legislation, we will not fall for the false choice between voting rights or the Build Back Better Act like a political version of The Hunger Games. We need both. This isn’t about Democrats versus Republicans or even progressives versus moderates, it’s about pursuing common-sense solutions that make life better for all of us. For far too long the health of our democracy, planet, and families have been undermined by greedy corporations and bad actors who are hellbent on seizing power to enrich themselves.
“Our democracy should be our best tool for advancing climate solutions, but it has been hijacked by oil and gas interests, corporate greed, and extremist politicians. Millions of people, especially Black and Brown communities, are blocked from participating in our democracy because of the authoritarian assault on democratic institutions and norms at the local state and national levels, which includes attempts to criminalize nonviolent protests, restrictions on voting rights, and the corroding influence of corporate money in politics. Congress must stop playing with our future and deliver on its promise to Americans. Advancing a collective vision of a just, green, and peaceful future from story to reality requires vast and sweeping change.”
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