RICHMOND, Va. – In response to the House Privileges & Elections Committee’s hearing today on language for three amendments to Virginia’s constitution, ACLU of Virginia’s Executive Director Mary Bauer released the following statement:
“As our civil rights and civil liberties face threats at the federal level, it’s even more important that we safeguard them here at home. Protecting Virginians’ rights will require amending Virginia’s constitution, and in 2025, we’ll be working to do just that with three amendments to protect Virginians’ right to vote, their right to marry the person they love, and their right to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions.
“Amending Virginia’s constitution is a bold endeavor. It means stating with moral clarity the values the people of Virginia stand for, and it’s a deeper and longer-lasting commitment than enacting a new law. Protecting our civil rights and civil liberties demands nothing less. Enshrining these rights in Virginia’s constitution would mean that no matter what happens at the federal level, Virginians’ rights would be as secure as possible. Today’s hearing was the first step in a multi-year, multi-coalition process, and we’ll be there every step of the way with our partners to create a Virginia that’s truly a place for us all.”