John —

I’m proud that both of my grandmothers, one from Alabama, the other from Pittsburgh, marched in the civil rights era. Over the weekend, I solemnly continued their march for justice in Selma, Ala., to mark the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday by crossing the Edmund Pettus Bridge.

On March 7, 1965, more than 600 voting rights advocates, including the late civil rights pioneer Congressman John Lewis, were brutally attacked by state troopers as they made their way across the infamous bridge to the state capital of Montgomery.

Leading by example, they courageously stood up during the throes of the Jim Crow era, staging a peaceful protest — for their humanity and right to make their voices heard at the ballot box. Individuals, families and children stood shoulder to shoulder ready to march over 50 miles in the name of equal rights for all. They were chased, beaten and bloodied, which sparked a nationwide response and resulted in the historic passage of the Voting Rights Act five months later.

We’ve come a long way since 1965, but as we move forward, we’re still struggling to protect the right to vote. Black people in America continue to be targeted with the same violence and persecution that left protesters beaten and bleeding on that bridge nearly 50 years ago. And the fundamental rights of Americans everywhere remain under assault by anti-democratic politicians enacting voting restrictions, robbing us of our bodily autonomy and working hard to deny people of the equal chance to work, live and thrive in our country.

Our futures hang in the balance during attacks on our individual rights. While it’s alarming that some want to turn back the clock and undo our hard-won progress, I am inspired every day to protect and strengthen our community, represent our shared values in Congress and honor those who came before me. Whether I’m crossing a civil rights landmark or bringing my folding chair to Congress, know that I’m focused on forging a better future for all of us. John, will you let me know you're with me?

In solidarity,