Dear Neighbors, Last week, I had the great honor of joining Congresswoman Ilhan Omar for the State of the Union. As her guest, I had the opportunity to share the long and hard-won fight Minnesotans advocated for on the Restore the Vote movement and talk about the powerful conversations and stories from the people who have been personally affected. Congresswoman Omar and I did press calls and interviews with national and local media outlets where we emphasized the importance of strengthening American democracy and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate through voting rights expansion. I had the opportunity to attend committee hearings and was fortunate to have the opportunity to attend a meeting with members of the Progressive Caucus. I also had a chance to meet several congressional members from around the country. It was a pleasure to also meet many of the staffers who help our congressional members do the work on behalf of their constituents. Attending the State of the Union was a humbling and motivational experience. It's a privilege to lead alongside many dedicated and passionate community advocates, local leaders, and now this national network, fighting to strengthen our democracy. After over two decades of advocacy, the Restore the Vote bill became the most expansive voting rights restoration law in the country, re-enfranchising an additional 55,000 Minnesotans. I am grateful to all the advocates, organizers, and people personally affected by this matter for constantly showing up and making their voices heard, one way or another. In Minnesota, we value the right to civic engagement. We know that democracy is more than just casting a ballot every few years. It's about the freedom to speak our minds, challenge authority, and hold our leaders accountable. It's the complex, beautiful process of diverse voices shaping the future we all share. We must remain proactive in preserving our right to an inclusive democracy. Today, we see threats resurfacing against our fundamental right to vote. Misinformation clouds public discourse, breeding distrust and division. We face the danger of leaders who prioritize personal gain over the collective good. As the Vice Chair of the Inclusive Democracy Caucus, I will continue working to ensure all voices are heard and represented in our democracy, actively combating discrimination and supporting measures that increase voter accessibility. Democracy works best when everyone has the opportunity to participate and make their voice heard. Through my continued vigilance and leadership, I pledge to be a force for good, protecting the right to a free and fair democracy for myself and future generations. And I will work hard to ensure all Minnesotans have a say in our democracy, no matter where they live, what they look like, or who they vote for.  Keep in Touch Please continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.cedrick.frazier@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4255. You can also follow my official Facebook page and the People of Color and Indigenous (POCI) Caucus page. In community, Rep. Cedrick Frazier Minnesota House of Representatives Committee Assignments: Legislative Assistant: Morgan Durfee morgan.durfee@house.mn.gov |