The Voter Education Project (VEP) began in 1962 as part of the Southern Regional Council. Initially VEP granted funds to civil rights organizations to support voter education, voter registration drives, and voting-related research. In 1964, Vernon Jordan, the second executive director of the VEP, expanded the programs goals to include citizenship training, voter education, and leadership training in the southern United States, while continuing to provide funds to independent voter and civil rights groups, including the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), and the League of Women Voters. The VEP’s work with the League of Women Voters is highlighted in the materials below. In 1971, VEP under the leadership of John Lewis, became an independent organization and functioned as a research center and became known as an authoritative source for statistics on southern elections and voter registration in general. Lewis also forged the VEP into an activist organization, launching Voter Mobilization Tours with Georgia state legislator and civil rights advocate Julian Bond. At the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library we are always striving to improve our digital collections. We welcome additional information about people, places, or events depicted in any of the works in this collection. To submit information, please contact us at DSD@auctr.edu.
Sep 4, 2020

Voter Education Project Organizational Records

The Voter Education Project (VEP) began in 1962 as part of the Southern Regional Council. Initially VEP granted funds to civil rights organizations to support voter education, voter registration drives, and voting-related research. In 1964, Vernon Jordan, the second executive director of the VEP, expanded the programs goals to include citizenship training, voter education, and leadership training in the southern United States, while continuing to provide funds to independent voter and civil rights groups, including the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), and the League of Women Voters. The VEP’s work with the League of Women Voters is highlighted in the materials below. In 1971, VEP under the leadership of John Lewis, became an independent organization and functioned as a research center and became known as an authoritative source for statistics on southern elections and voter registration in general. Lewis also forged the VEP into an activist organization, launching Voter Mobilization Tours with Georgia state legislator and civil rights advocate Julian Bond.

At the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library we are always striving to improve our digital collections. We welcome additional information about people, places, or events depicted in any of the works in this collection. To submit information, please contact us at DSD@auctr.edu.
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Newsletter discussing the religious community's analysis of two housing bills, the "National Affordable Housing Act" (S 565) Senate bill which requested a moderate increase in federal housing expenditures to create new programs and the "Housing and Community Development Act" (HR 1180) House bill which proposed a substantial increase in spending on programs that are much like current housing programs. This analysis included the discussion of affordable housing options and statements regarding the necessity of accessible housing options in the United States. 2 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Religious Community Analyzes Two Housing Bills," October 1989
Date Created
1989-10
Description
Newsletter discussing the religious community's analysis of two housing bills, the "National Affordable Housing Act" (S 565) Senate bill which requested a moderate increase in federal housing expenditures to create new programs and the "Housing and Community Development Act" (HR 1180) House bill which proposed a substantial increase in spending on programs that are much like current housing programs. This analysis included the discussion of affordable housing options and statements regarding the necessity of accessible housing options in the United States. 2 pages.
Subject
Civil rights movements, Political participation, Human rights, Religious broadcasting
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newsletter discussing the religious community's response to a mining labor strike in Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky, after Pittson Coal Company miners worked 14 months without a contract and the company withdrew from the Bituminous Coal Operators Association, a multi-employer bargaining group which negotiated contracts covering mining employees who were members of the UMWA. The newsletter included an interfaith statement of support calling for reconciliation and resolution between the parties. 2 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Religious Community Responds to Mine Workers' Strike", October 1989
Date Created
1989-10
Description
Newsletter discussing the religious community's response to a mining labor strike in Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky, after Pittson Coal Company miners worked 14 months without a contract and the company withdrew from the Bituminous Coal Operators Association, a multi-employer bargaining group which negotiated contracts covering mining employees who were members of the UMWA. The newsletter included an interfaith statement of support calling for reconciliation and resolution between the parties. 2 pages.
Subject
Civil rights movements, Political participation, Human rights, Religious broadcasting, Labor
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper book review of Abigail Themstrom's "Whose Votes Count: Affirmative Action and Minority Voting Rights", which examined the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and its impact on minority representation in government. Themstrom argued that the act had been distorted from its original intent and that the current focus on proportional representation was misguided. She believed that the act should be amended to focus on equality of opportunity, rather than equality of outcomes. 4 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Beginning with Voting", February 20, 1989
Date Created
1989-02-20
Description
Newspaper book review of Abigail Themstrom's "Whose Votes Count: Affirmative Action and Minority Voting Rights", which examined the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and its impact on minority representation in government. Themstrom argued that the act had been distorted from its original intent and that the current focus on proportional representation was misguided. She believed that the act should be amended to focus on equality of opportunity, rather than equality of outcomes. 4 pages.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Press release from the Voter Education Project announcing a creative poster project among middle and high school students in the Atlanta school system. The theme of the project was "Your Vote, Your Voice, Our Future." The two winners of the competition were to receive an award and a cash prize of $50.00, and all participants received a certificate recognizing their talents and participation. The event was intended to impress upon students the importance of voting and citizenship responsibility, and to allow them an opportunity to express their thoughts on voting and government through poster art. The poster project was part of VEP's Twentieth Anniversary Celebration. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
VEP Press Release, October 1981
Date Created
1981-10
Description
Press release from the Voter Education Project announcing a creative poster project among middle and high school students in the Atlanta school system. The theme of the project was "Your Vote, Your Voice, Our Future." The two winners of the competition were to receive an award and a cash prize of $50.00, and all participants received a certificate recognizing their talents and participation. The event was intended to impress upon students the importance of voting and citizenship responsibility, and to allow them an opportunity to express their thoughts on voting and government through poster art. The poster project was part of VEP's Twentieth Anniversary Celebration. 1 page.
Subject
Children, Civil rights movements, African American arts
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Press release from the Voter Education Project announcing an upcoming Contemporary Voting Rights Conference in Jackson, Mississippi with featured speakers and discussion leaders from a variety of organizations, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). The conference sought to provide information and resources on the Voting Rights Act Reauthorization, redistricting, and reapportionment. 2 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
VEP Press Release, September 29, 1981
Date Created
1981-09-29
Description
Press release from the Voter Education Project announcing an upcoming Contemporary Voting Rights Conference in Jackson, Mississippi with featured speakers and discussion leaders from a variety of organizations, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). The conference sought to provide information and resources on the Voting Rights Act Reauthorization, redistricting, and reapportionment. 2 pages.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Two men discuss a report in Southern Pines, North Carolina.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Two Men Discuss a Report, 1979
Date Created
1979
Description
Two men discuss a report in Southern Pines, North Carolina.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Felton Capel receives commendation for being elected to the Southern Pines town council for a fith term.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Felton Capel Celebrates Fifth Term to Town Council in Southern Pines, 1979
Date Created
1979
Description
Felton Capel receives commendation for being elected to the Southern Pines town council for a fith term.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article discussing Black leaders rallying in support of Vernon Jordan, who criticized the Carter administration's record on civil rights and social programs. Benjamin Hooks, executive director of the NAACP, and the Rev. Jesse Jackson also echoed Jordan's criticisms. Carter defended his record, but there were indications that a rift was developing between the White House and Black leaders. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Black Leaders Support Jordan Attack on Carter", July 27, 1977
Date Created
1977-07-27
Description
Newspaper article discussing Black leaders rallying in support of Vernon Jordan, who criticized the Carter administration's record on civil rights and social programs. Benjamin Hooks, executive director of the NAACP, and the Rev. Jesse Jackson also echoed Jordan's criticisms. Carter defended his record, but there were indications that a rift was developing between the White House and Black leaders. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements, Presidents
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article from The Atlanta Constitution endorsing John R. Lewis for the Fifth District congressional seat in an upcoming special election after it was vacated by Andrew Young after his appointment to the United Nations. Among its reasons for endorsing Lewis as a worthy successor to Young, the Constitution primarily believed that he would be a strong advocate for the people of the district. The Constitution also noted that Lewis was an original freedom rider and leader of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee, emphasizing his deep understanding of the political process and the problems facing the Fifth District. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"John Lewis", March 10, 1977
Date Created
1977-03-10
Description
Newspaper article from The Atlanta Constitution endorsing John R. Lewis for the Fifth District congressional seat in an upcoming special election after it was vacated by Andrew Young after his appointment to the United Nations. Among its reasons for endorsing Lewis as a worthy successor to Young, the Constitution primarily believed that he would be a strong advocate for the people of the district. The Constitution also noted that Lewis was an original freedom rider and leader of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee, emphasizing his deep understanding of the political process and the problems facing the Fifth District. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper op-ed by John R Lewis, Executive Director of the Voter Education Project, calling on the United States to withdraw its support for the apartheid government of South Africa. Lewis argued that the United States was morally obligated to support majority rule in South Africa and that its current policies are only prolonging the suffering of Black South Africans. He proposed a number of concrete steps that the United States could take to end apartheid, including isolating South Africa from public and private support, participating in the United Nations embargo against South Africa, and repealing the Byrd Amendment. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"John Lewis: Beginning Steps For South Africa", December 25, 1976
Date Created
1976-12-25
Description
Newspaper op-ed by John R Lewis, Executive Director of the Voter Education Project, calling on the United States to withdraw its support for the apartheid government of South Africa. Lewis argued that the United States was morally obligated to support majority rule in South Africa and that its current policies are only prolonging the suffering of Black South Africans. He proposed a number of concrete steps that the United States could take to end apartheid, including isolating South Africa from public and private support, participating in the United Nations embargo against South Africa, and repealing the Byrd Amendment. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing controversy over Andrew Young's appointment as ambassador to the United Nations among his friends and constituents in Atlanta. Some of Young's closest friends believed that he could do more good for America's disadvantaged by staying in Congress and helping to steer passage of legislation critical to Blacks and other minorities. Others were concerned about the political chaos that could follow in the choice of Young's successor in his biracial 5th Congressional District. The district was 62% white, and it was generally believed that Young was the only public figure who could appeal enough to both races to defeat a white candidate. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Young's Decision Draws Criticism", December 19, 1976
Date Created
1976-12-19
Description
Newspaper article describing controversy over Andrew Young's appointment as ambassador to the United Nations among his friends and constituents in Atlanta. Some of Young's closest friends believed that he could do more good for America's disadvantaged by staying in Congress and helping to steer passage of legislation critical to Blacks and other minorities. Others were concerned about the political chaos that could follow in the choice of Young's successor in his biracial 5th Congressional District. The district was 62% white, and it was generally believed that Young was the only public figure who could appeal enough to both races to defeat a white candidate. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article sent to John R. Lewis from Ross Range discussing the prevailing feelings of Southerners who have moved to the North and how they viewed the election of Jimmy Carter as President as an opportunity for how the South was viewed by the rest of the country. The article features the interviews of several Southerners who experienced prejudice and alienation in the North, but who were ultimately proud of Carter's election as a symbol of the South's progress. The article concluded that the election of Carter was a sign that the South was finally being accepted. 5 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"'North had its foot on neck of South for long time'," November 14, 1976
Date Created
1976-11-14
Description
Newspaper article sent to John R. Lewis from Ross Range discussing the prevailing feelings of Southerners who have moved to the North and how they viewed the election of Jimmy Carter as President as an opportunity for how the South was viewed by the rest of the country. The article features the interviews of several Southerners who experienced prejudice and alienation in the North, but who were ultimately proud of Carter's election as a symbol of the South's progress. The article concluded that the election of Carter was a sign that the South was finally being accepted. 5 pages.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article regarding John Lewis role as the executive director of the Voter Education Project (VEP), an organization that worked to increase Black and minority voter registration and participation in the South. Lewis was a leading figure in the civil rights movement, and he was one of the speakers at the March on Washington in 1963. He was committed to ensuring that all Americans have the opportunity to vote, and he believed that voting was essential to a healthy democracy. 8 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"John Lewis Preaches That Winning the Ballot Isn't Enough. Everybody Needs To Use It", October 31, 1976
Date Created
1976-10-31
Description
Newspaper article regarding John Lewis role as the executive director of the Voter Education Project (VEP), an organization that worked to increase Black and minority voter registration and participation in the South. Lewis was a leading figure in the civil rights movement, and he was one of the speakers at the March on Washington in 1963. He was committed to ensuring that all Americans have the opportunity to vote, and he believed that voting was essential to a healthy democracy. 8 pages.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper op-ed by John R. Lewis, Executive Director of the Voter Education Project, imploring Black Americans to exercise their right to vote in the 1976 elections. Lewis argued that the vote was a powerful tool that could be used to transform communities, improve education, and achieve economic equality. He urged Black Americans to use their votes to elect officials who would represent their interests and create a better future for all. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Liberation Day November 2, 1976", October 27, 1976
Date Created
1976-10-27
Description
Newspaper op-ed by John R. Lewis, Executive Director of the Voter Education Project, imploring Black Americans to exercise their right to vote in the 1976 elections. Lewis argued that the vote was a powerful tool that could be used to transform communities, improve education, and achieve economic equality. He urged Black Americans to use their votes to elect officials who would represent their interests and create a better future for all. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Correspondence from Harald Hamrin, jounalist for the Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter, addressed to John R. Lewis regarding Hamrin's attached article discussing Lewis' civil rights activities in America. 3 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"De Svartas Kampanda Ska Vackas", October 18, 1976
Date Created
1976-10-18
Description
Correspondence from Harald Hamrin, jounalist for the Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter, addressed to John R. Lewis regarding Hamrin's attached article discussing Lewis' civil rights activities in America. 3 pages.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article featuring the sentiments of John R. Lewis, Executive Director of the Voter Education Project, as he discussed the importance of voting and the challenges facing voter registration efforts in the South. Lewis argued that voter apathy and cynicism were among the major obstacles to increasing voter turnout, especially among young people. He also cited the lack of universal voter registration and the intimidation of Black voters by law enforcement as problems that needed to be addressed. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Apathy Irks Man Who Fought For Vote", October 10, 1976
Date Created
1976-10-10
Description
Newspaper article featuring the sentiments of John R. Lewis, Executive Director of the Voter Education Project, as he discussed the importance of voting and the challenges facing voter registration efforts in the South. Lewis argued that voter apathy and cynicism were among the major obstacles to increasing voter turnout, especially among young people. He also cited the lack of universal voter registration and the intimidation of Black voters by law enforcement as problems that needed to be addressed. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing plans for John R. Lewis, the executive director of the Voter Education Project (VEP), and Georgia State Rep. David Scott to speak at a "Get Out the Vote Rally" on Tuesday, October 12, 1976, at Texas College Martin Hall. The non-partisan event was designed to encourage people to vote in the upcoming general election. Lewis and Scott were also set to meet with local community leaders at Bethlehem Baptist Church prior to the rally. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Lewis To Speak At 'Vote' Rally", October 8, 1976
Date Created
1976-10-08
Description
Newspaper article describing plans for John R. Lewis, the executive director of the Voter Education Project (VEP), and Georgia State Rep. David Scott to speak at a "Get Out the Vote Rally" on Tuesday, October 12, 1976, at Texas College Martin Hall. The non-partisan event was designed to encourage people to vote in the upcoming general election. Lewis and Scott were also set to meet with local community leaders at Bethlehem Baptist Church prior to the rally. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing local Mississippi chapters of the League of Women Voters' petitioning of the national League to sponsor televised debates between Jimmy Carter and President Ford. The League agreed to sponsor three televised debates between the two candidates, and one vice presidential debate. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Local Leagues Pushed For Debates", October 3, 1976
Date Created
1976-10-03
Description
Newspaper article describing local Mississippi chapters of the League of Women Voters' petitioning of the national League to sponsor televised debates between Jimmy Carter and President Ford. The League agreed to sponsor three televised debates between the two candidates, and one vice presidential debate. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing John R. Lewis sentiments on voter registration after speaking at a press conference in Greenville, South Carolina, on September 26, 1976. Lewis urged Black voters to register to vote before the October 2 registration deadline. Lewis said that he and his colleagues found that 80% of the students at a community college in Mississippi were not registered to vote. He also insisted that the federal government do more to make it easier to register to vote. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Voter Registration Urged Of Blacks", September 29, 1976
Date Created
1976-09-29
Description
Newspaper article describing John R. Lewis sentiments on voter registration after speaking at a press conference in Greenville, South Carolina, on September 26, 1976. Lewis urged Black voters to register to vote before the October 2 registration deadline. Lewis said that he and his colleagues found that 80% of the students at a community college in Mississippi were not registered to vote. He also insisted that the federal government do more to make it easier to register to vote. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article regarding the Fort Bend County Voter Education Project continuation of its door-to-door voter registration drive and its addition of several new substations where citizens could also register to vote. The drive was very successful, and the deadline to register to vote in the Presidential election was October 3. Volunteers were asked to meet at the Project's office to help with the registration drive. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Voter Drive Continues Throughout Fort Bend", September 8, 1976
Date Created
1976-09-08
Description
Newspaper article regarding the Fort Bend County Voter Education Project continuation of its door-to-door voter registration drive and its addition of several new substations where citizens could also register to vote. The drive was very successful, and the deadline to register to vote in the Presidential election was October 3. Volunteers were asked to meet at the Project's office to help with the registration drive. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper op-ed commending John R. Lewis for his long-time commitment to achieving civil rights for minority voters in the South, despite brutal and violent attempts to oppose civil rights efforts. The writer recognized Lewis as a civil rights icon who fought for equality and justice in the 1960s. Lewis was arrested 40 times and endured violence, but never gave up. Lewis also served as the Executive Director of the Voter Education Project where he continued to fight for social change. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Courage Won the Victory", August 2, 1976
Date Created
1976-08-02
Description
Newspaper op-ed commending John R. Lewis for his long-time commitment to achieving civil rights for minority voters in the South, despite brutal and violent attempts to oppose civil rights efforts. The writer recognized Lewis as a civil rights icon who fought for equality and justice in the 1960s. Lewis was arrested 40 times and endured violence, but never gave up. Lewis also served as the Executive Director of the Voter Education Project where he continued to fight for social change. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing John R. Lewis's statements at the Institute on Nonviolence and Social Change, where he argued that the philosophy of nonviolence was still important years after the civil rights movement's end. He said that nonviolence was an "ongoing process" towards the building of a community of justice and peace, and that the nonviolent movement of the 1960s was merely a bridge over troubled waters. 1 page
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Civil Rights Leader Says Nonviolence Still Needed", July 28, 1976
Date Created
1976-07-28
Description
Newspaper article describing John R. Lewis's statements at the Institute on Nonviolence and Social Change, where he argued that the philosophy of nonviolence was still important years after the civil rights movement's end. He said that nonviolence was an "ongoing process" towards the building of a community of justice and peace, and that the nonviolent movement of the 1960s was merely a bridge over troubled waters. 1 page
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing two Southern politicians, Bob Bullock of Texas and Zell Miller of Georgia, public support of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Bullock stated that the law was working and protecting the right to vote, while Miller stated that it should be extended to the entire nation. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Good Old Boys in the New South", November 30, 1975
Date Created
1975-11-30
Description
Newspaper article describing two Southern politicians, Bob Bullock of Texas and Zell Miller of Georgia, public support of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Bullock stated that the law was working and protecting the right to vote, while Miller stated that it should be extended to the entire nation. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing Georgia Lieutenant Governor Zell Miller's calls for all states to be brought under the provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Miller said that the act, which was passed to ensure that all Americans, regardless of race, creed, or color, are not discriminated against at the polls, was only applied to seven states, including Georgia and Texas. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Zell Miller Vows Campaign To Make U.S. Voting Rights Act Nationwide", November 27, 1975
Date Created
1975-11-27
Description
Newspaper article describing Georgia Lieutenant Governor Zell Miller's calls for all states to be brought under the provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Miller said that the act, which was passed to ensure that all Americans, regardless of race, creed, or color, are not discriminated against at the polls, was only applied to seven states, including Georgia and Texas. 1 page.
Subject
Political campaigns, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing Lt. Gov. Zell Miller of Georgia's praise of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 for increasing voter registration and the number of Black elected officials in the South. However, he criticized Congress for not applying the law uniformly to all 50 states. Miller said that the law should be extended to all states, not just the South and states with large Spanish-speaking populations. He argued that it was discriminatory to apply the law to some states but not to others. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Miller in Texas, Praises Voting Act", November 24, 1975
Date Created
1975-11-24
Description
Newspaper article describing Lt. Gov. Zell Miller of Georgia's praise of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 for increasing voter registration and the number of Black elected officials in the South. However, he criticized Congress for not applying the law uniformly to all 50 states. Miller said that the law should be extended to all states, not just the South and states with large Spanish-speaking populations. He argued that it was discriminatory to apply the law to some states but not to others. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing President Ford's signing of a seven-year extension of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, despite warnings from some political advisers that it could harm his conservative image in the South. The legislation was passed by Congress over the objections of some Southern lawmakers, who argued that it was punitive and unfairly regional in scope. Ford's decision to sign the bill was praised by civil rights leaders, who said it was a victory for democracy. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Ford in Publicity Glare For Voter Rights Signing", August 7, 1975
Date Created
1975-08-07
Description
Newspaper article describing President Ford's signing of a seven-year extension of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, despite warnings from some political advisers that it could harm his conservative image in the South. The legislation was passed by Congress over the objections of some Southern lawmakers, who argued that it was punitive and unfairly regional in scope. Ford's decision to sign the bill was praised by civil rights leaders, who said it was a victory for democracy. 1 page.
Subject
Presidents, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing Lt. Gov. Zell Miller of Georgia's calls for voting law changes that would increase voter registration and turnout. He specifically called for a switch to voter registration by mail, polling places to be open until 9 p.m., the mandated purge of voting lists to be expanded or eliminated, and ballots to be simplified. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Miller Asks Voting Reforms", August 6, 1975
Date Created
1975-08-06
Description
Newspaper article describing Lt. Gov. Zell Miller of Georgia's calls for voting law changes that would increase voter registration and turnout. He specifically called for a switch to voter registration by mail, polling places to be open until 9 p.m., the mandated purge of voting lists to be expanded or eliminated, and ballots to be simplified. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing the U.S. Senate voting down of an amendment to the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that would have expanded the law to all 50 states. The amendment was proposed by Sen. Herman Talmadge, who argued that the law should be applied to all areas of the country where minority voting participation has been low. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Expanded Vote Act Refused by Senate", July 23, 1975
Date Created
1975-07-23
Description
Newspaper article describing the U.S. Senate voting down of an amendment to the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that would have expanded the law to all 50 states. The amendment was proposed by Sen. Herman Talmadge, who argued that the law should be applied to all areas of the country where minority voting participation has been low. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article discussing Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield's efforts to to secure a 10-year extension of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, despite Southern pushback from Sens. James Allen and Jesse Helms, who tried to block the bill from being debated. Mansfield warned that the Senate would "confront the issue" if such tactics continued to be used. The updated bill would expand the law to cover Mexican-Americans and other language minority groups. 2 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Voting Act Extension Is Pressed", July 19, 1975
Date Created
1975-07-19
Description
Newspaper article discussing Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield's efforts to to secure a 10-year extension of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, despite Southern pushback from Sens. James Allen and Jesse Helms, who tried to block the bill from being debated. Mansfield warned that the Senate would "confront the issue" if such tactics continued to be used. The updated bill would expand the law to cover Mexican-Americans and other language minority groups. 2 pages.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article discussing Voter Education Project (VEP) Director John R. Lewis's calls for a permanent and national voting rights law to replace the 1965 Voting Rights Act, which was set to expire. Lewis argued that it was demeaning for minorities to have to petition the government for renewal of their constitutional rights on a periodic basis. 2 pages.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"VEP Calls For Permanent Voting Rights Law", March 22-28, 1975
Date Created
1975-03
Description
Newspaper article discussing Voter Education Project (VEP) Director John R. Lewis's calls for a permanent and national voting rights law to replace the 1965 Voting Rights Act, which was set to expire. Lewis argued that it was demeaning for minorities to have to petition the government for renewal of their constitutional rights on a periodic basis. 2 pages.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Newspaper article describing Congressman Andrew Young urging of Congress to extend and strengthen the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which was set to expire. Young, who participated in the voting rights movement in Selma, Alabama, ten years prior, presented a documentary film on the voting rights movement to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Civil and Constitutional Rights. 1 page.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
"Renew, Strengthen Voting Act, Young Urges Congress", March 8, 1975
Date Created
1975-03
Description
Newspaper article describing Congressman Andrew Young urging of Congress to extend and strengthen the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which was set to expire. Young, who participated in the voting rights movement in Selma, Alabama, ten years prior, presented a documentary film on the voting rights movement to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Civil and Constitutional Rights. 1 page.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis and Coretta Scott-King walk across Edmund Pettis Bridge on the ten-year anniversary of Selma's Bloody Sunday.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis Marches in Selma With Coretta Scott King, 1975
Date Created
1975
Description
John R. Lewis and Coretta Scott-King walk across Edmund Pettis Bridge on the ten-year anniversary of Selma's Bloody Sunday.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Gerald Blessey talks to an audience of people during his political campaign.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Gerald Blessey Speaks to People During His Political Campaign, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
Gerald Blessey talks to an audience of people during his political campaign.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements, Political campaigns
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Gerald Blessey talks to a group of young people during his political campaign.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Gerald Blessey Speaks With a Group of Young Voters, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
Gerald Blessey talks to a group of young people during his political campaign.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, African Americans--Politics and government, Civil rights movements, Political campaigns
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis poses for a photo with a group of people following a speaking engagement.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis Poses for a Photo With a Group of People, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
John R. Lewis poses for a photo with a group of people following a speaking engagement.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
A group of VEP workers talk, while one of the workers writes down notes.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Group of VEP Workers Talk, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
A group of VEP workers talk, while one of the workers writes down notes.
Subject
African American civic rights workers, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
A woman reads a speech at a podium.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Woman Reads a Speech to a Small Crowd, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
A woman reads a speech at a podium.
Subject
African American civic rights workers, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis addresses a small crowd of people.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis Addresses a Small Crowd, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
John R. Lewis addresses a small crowd of people.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Three men talk while one of them writes down notes.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Three Men Talk at a Table, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
Three men talk while one of them writes down notes.
Subject
African American civic rights workers, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis speaks at a panel event.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis Gives a Speech, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
John R. Lewis speaks at a panel event.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis speaks at a panel event.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis Gives a Speech, circa 1976
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
John R. Lewis speaks at a panel event.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
A man sings at a church podium, while other people sing in the background.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Man Sings at a Church Podium, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
A man sings at a church podium, while other people sing in the background.
Subject
African American civic rights workers, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis and eight other people stand outside of a building for a photo.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis Poses for a Photo With a Group of People, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
John R. Lewis and eight other people stand outside of a building for a photo.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis speaks with a man and woman on a sidewalk.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
John R. Lewis Speaks with Two People, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
John R. Lewis speaks with a man and woman on a sidewalk.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
A man addresses a conference room of people during a meeting.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Man Speaks to a Conference Room, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
A man addresses a conference room of people during a meeting.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
A group of young black boyscouts smile for a photo.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Group of Boyscouts Pose for a Photo, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
A group of young black boyscouts smile for a photo.
Subject
Children, Civil rights movements, Recreation
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
A group of VEP event attendees pose for a photo outside of a building.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Group of VEP Event Attendees Pose for a Photo, circa 1975
Date Created
1972/1978
Description
A group of VEP event attendees pose for a photo outside of a building.
Subject
African American civic rights workers, African Americans--Civil rights, Voter registration, Civil rights movements
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
A man reads from the Gospel in a church, while Maynard Jackson stands in the background.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Man Reads From the Gospel, circa 1974
Date Created
1972/1976
Description
A man reads from the Gospel in a church, while Maynard Jackson stands in the background.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, African American leadership, Civil rights movements, African American churches
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Maynard Jackson addresses people in a church.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Maynard Jackson Speaks to People at a Church, circa 1974
Date Created
1972/1976
Description
Maynard Jackson addresses people in a church.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, African American leadership, Civil rights movements, African American churches, African American mayors
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
A man addresses people in a church, while Maynard Jackson sits in the background.
Voter Education Project Organizational Records
Man Speaks to People at a Church, circa 1974
Date Created
1972/1976
Description
A man addresses people in a church, while Maynard Jackson sits in the background.
Subject
African American civic leaders, African Americans--Civil rights, African American leadership, Civil rights movements, African American churches
Collection
Voter Education Project Organizational Records