Ethnicity a valid factor for voters
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Re “Caucus vs. caucus,” editorial, May 14
Race matters in representative government: That is what the Voting Rights Act was all about. It may not be the most critical factor for all voters seeking good representation and sound public policy, but ever since African Americans won the right to vote with the 15th Amendment, ethnic identification has played a key role in fulfilling the promise of democracy for all.
Voters routinely cast ballots for candidates they feel are like themselves and who share their concerns. It will be no different June 26, when voters (26% African American, 49% Anglo, 19% Latino, 5% Asian Pacific Islander) in the 37th Congressional District turn out to choose a new representative to replace the late Rep. Juanita Millender-McDonald.
It is perfectly legitimate for African Americans to push to retain this seat, as has been the case in many other instances throughout history since the passage of the Voting Rights Act. This is simply a matter of political self-determination and community empowerment.
SEN. MARK
RIDLEY-THOMAS
(D-Los Angeles)
The writer, a former L.A. city councilman, is chairman of the African American Voter Registration, Education and Participation Project.
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