A Message from the NBLSA Executive Office

Dear NBLSA Family, On Tuesday, November 2, 2010, we have an incredible opportunity to participate in our democratic process. I write on the eve of our midterm elections to encourage you to vote and to share this reminder with others. Why vote? Because each of us has an issue we are passionate about such as education, the environment, civil rights, the economy, and healthcare. No matter what your focus is, legislation plays an important role. Your vote tomorrow will help determine not only the election, but also the future of your cause and our nation. Why vote? Because we are law students and future attorneys. Our active advocacy on behalf of others rings hollow if we are unwilling to add our voices to America’s marketplace of ideas. Your vote will contribute to the direction of our great democracy. Why vote? Because voting is a meaningful expression of American citizenship for which Blacks have historically fought. We have an obligation to continue to exercise this everyday freedom for which so many have sacrificed their lives. Your vote will honor the legacy of their struggle for empowerment. For these reasons, voter education and election protection remain core NBLSA initiatives. Even today, situations may arise, intentionally or inadvertently, that work to disenfranchise us as well as our neighbors, family, and friends. Equal access to the ballot is not accomplished without constant vigilance. We have partnered with theElection Protection Coalition to ensure all voters have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process. If you experience or become aware of a problem at the polls, please contact the Election Protection Coalition at 1-866-OUR VOTE. You may also notify NBLSA by contacting us at vote@nblsa.org. I hope you will join me in exercising our right to vote by casting a ballot tomorrow. All the best, Melinda M. Hightower University of Virginia School of Law, Class of 2011 National Chair, 2010-2011 National Black Law Students Association