Voting Rights Then & Now: History repeating

LET’S TALK: VOTING RIGHTS
Reception at 6:00pm
Program at 7:00pm

The 1965 Voting Rights Act was a watershed moment in American history, coming after a long struggle to protect the rights of the poor, the disenfranchised, and people of color. In 2016 we see major blows to this critical piece of legislation including restrictive voter registration requirements, redistricting plans that dilute minority voting strength, discriminatory annexations, and inaccessible polling places for minority voters. In partnership with MPR News, Penumbra will host a Let’s Talk focusing on voting rights. Guests include: Ari Berman, contributing writer with The Nation and author of Give Us The Ballot; Lecia Brooks, outreach director for Southern Poverty Law Center; Dr. Josie Johnson, pioneering educator and activist; and Dameun Strange, artist, activist and organizer.

Penumbra’s Let’s Talk Series creates space for compassionate and challenging conversations around issues of social justice, equity, and the arts. Hosted by Sarah Bellamy, the event begins at 6:00pm with refreshments and light bites, followed by a 90-minute presentation and discussion.

Let’s Talk Series sponsored by 3M and MPR News.

Penumbra Theatre Company is a participant in the Audience (R)Evolution: Travel Grant program, funded by The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and administered by Theatre Communications Group, the national organization for the professional not-for-profit American theatre.