Congress: Support D.C. Statehood Now

Washington, D.C. is the only national capital in the democratic world whose citizens do not have equal voting and representation rights. The more than 700,000 D.C. residents pay federal and local taxes – just like anyone living in any other state – yet they are denied their fundamental civil rights due to the lack of statehood. That is why the Washington, D.C. Admission Act, H.R. 51/ S. 51, is so critical – a constitutionally sound bill to establish statehood for D.C.

The denial of equal representation for District residents is rooted in racism. Congress stripped D.C. of its right to self-govern after the Civil War – just as its many new Black voters started to exercise their political power and run for office in D.C. This lack of statehood rights continues to harm residents today. H.R. 51/ S. 51 can help correct these historical wrongs, but it will take all of us – especially those with representation – to ensure it succeeds. Send a message to your senators urging support of H.R. 51/ S. 51.

Message Recipients:

Your U.S. Senators and House Representative

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Your Message

Subject Support H.R. 51/ S. 51 and D.C. Statehood

As your constituent, I'm urging you to help correct a historic wrong by supporting the Washington, D.C. Admission Act – H.R. 51/ S. 51 – a constitutionally sound bill granting D.C. statehood and securing its residents full voting and representation rights. I am concerned with the decision some congressional members have made to interfere in D.C.’s local affairs and have concluded that the only way to fully protect the rights of D.C. citizens is to ensure D.C. becomes a state.

Message Body

D.C. is the only national capital in the democratic world whose citizens do not have equal voting and representation rights – and that reality is rooted in racism. Congress stripped D.C. of its right to self-govern after the Civil War – just as its many new Black voters started to exercise their political power and run for office in D.C.

Granting  Washington, D.C. statehood is a matter of basic democratic principle. District residents deserve equal representation in Congress, just like citizens in any other state. Currently, more than 700,000 Washingtonians pay federal taxes, serve in the military, and contribute to the fabric of our nation; denying them a vote in Congress runs counter to the values upon which our nation was founded.

By granting D.C. statehood through an act of Congress, H.R. 51/ S. 51 is a constitutional, valid exercise of congressional power to correct these ongoing injustices and allow District residents to fully participate and be represented in our national government. Statehood would empower the local representative government to control its affairs, allowing for independent decision-making on matters like budget, infrastructure development, and public health.

People who live in D.C. overwhelmingly want statehood, but must rely on those with representation in Congress to take action. Ensuring that District of Columbia residents have voting rights and full representation aligns with our democratic values and principles. That is why I'm reaching out to you today, asking you to advance D.C. statehood and oppose any future interference in D.C.'s home rule immediately.

If you believe in democracy and equal rights, you must support D.C. statehood. Please vote yes on H.R. 51/ S. 51 when it comes to the floor.

Sincerely,

[First Name] [Last Name]

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Congress: Support D.C. Statehood Now

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