YWCA and LWV Nashville to Host Community Rally Honoring 60th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act
Group of community rally attendees from 2024 event at Historic Metro Courthouse.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (July 17, 2025) — On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Nashville (LWV) will host the annual Stand Against Injustice Rally at the Scarritt Bennett Center, a historic site for civil rights organizing in the South.
This powerful, community-centered event commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA), a cornerstone of American democracy that expanded access to the ballot box for millions. While we gather in remembrance of hard-won progress, the event also recognizes the fight for fair and equitable civic participation continues.
Dr. Sekou Franklin, newly appointed Executive Director of the John Lewis Center for Social Justice at Fisk University, will deliver the keynote address. A respected educator and activist, Dr. Franklin will reflect on the legacy of the Voting Rights Act and what it means to protect and advance the VRA in today’s world.
The program will also feature a performance by Fisk University music major Laila Cooper, light refreshments, and a reading of a Metro Council Resolution. Mayor Freddie O’Connell is scheduled to attend, along with several members of Metro Council and community leaders in support of this citywide recognition of voting rights and need for civic participation.
As part of the event, YWCA, LWV and numerous community organizations will sign a join resolution reaffirming their collective commitment to protecting voting rights and promoting civic engagement in Middle Tennessee. Confirmed participants include representatives from American Baptist College, Tennessee State University, Fisk University, the NAACP Nashville, The Urban League of Middle Tennessee, AWAKE, and other civic and advocacy groups.
“Sixty years ago, the Voting Rights Act marked a turning point in the fight for democracy,” said Sharon K. Roberson, President & CEO of YWCA. “This rally is not only a celebration of that legacy, it’s a call to action to continue the work of protecting access to the ballot and uplifting every voice in our community.”
Held in the Harambee Auditorium at the Scarritt Bennett Center, a historic institution known for its deep ties to racial justice, women’s empowerment and social change, the event offers a space for reflection, recommitment, and public witness to the power of community.
“The League is proud to stand alongside our community partners to protect what is won and continue the push for a more representative and just democracy.” said Ophelia Doe, Co-President of the League of Women Voters of Nashville.
This event is made possible through the generous support of the Harnisch Foundation.
The Stand Against Injustice Rally is free and open to the public. Community members, students, faith groups, nonprofit leaders, and neighbors of all backgrounds are encouraged to attend and lend their presence to this moment of reflection and resolve.
About YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee - For over 125 years, YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee has helped women, girls and families in Nashville and Middle Tennessee build safer, more self-sufficient lives. Programs include Domestic Violence Services, Girls Inc., AMEND Together, Dress for Success, the Family Learning Center, and Social Justice & Advocacy. For more information, visit www.ywcanashville.com and follow us on Instagram @ywcanashville or Facebook facebook.com/YWCANashville.
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Contact
Michelle Mowery Johnson
VP of Strategic Communications & Advocacy | YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee
615.424.0544 | michelle.moweryjohnson@ywcanashville.com
