Reps. Brent and Crossman introduce bill to designate Feb. 21 as "John Lewis Voter Registration Day"

COLUMBUS—In honor of the late civil rights leader Congressman John Lewis, State Representatives Jeffrey A. Crossman (D- Parma) and Juanita Brent (D-Cleveland) introduced legislation on Thursday, July 30, the day that Lewis was laid to rest, to designate Feb. 21 as “John Lewis Voter Registration Day.” The day, picked because it is Lewis’ birthday, would promote voter registration throughout Ohio and remember all the important work Lewis did to expand voting rights for all Americans.

“As our nation mourns the loss of Congressman John Lewis, we must continue his legacy of fighting for voting rights for all people,” said Rep. Brent. “This voter registration day, which is to be celebrated on his birthday, will carry on his legacy here in the state of Ohio.”

“As our country mourns the loss of Congressman John Lewis, we want to find ways to honor his legacy of fighting for civil rights, including his greatest cause of securing the right to vote,” said Rep. Crossman. “Congressman Lewis knew that the only way to sustain long-lasting and positive change in our country was to ensure that every person had the right to vote and that the vote be protected.”

The bill now awaits a bill number and referral to a House Committee.

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