Feb. 26, 2013 | Social Issues

Remembering the Voting Rights Act of 1965

Since 1965, the Voting Rights Act has been one of the most prominent pieces of civil rights legislation. Its aim: to ensure that people in areas with a history of racial discrimination receive fair treatment when they vote. On Feb. 27, the Supreme Court will revisit a key provision of this landmark law.

The Supreme Court's attention on the Voting Rights Act of 1965 allows PBS NewsHour to look back in history, too. We asked viewers to share memories surrounding the passage of the law and the civil rights era. We received nearly 70 calls from 26 states. We have heard from those who volunteered and marched in support of the civil rights movement, former U.S. Department of Justice workers who helped implement the law and callers who said they later realized the Voting Rights Act's importance.

We invite you to listen to these powerful pieces of history, and please keep sharing your stories. Call 703-594-6PBS.

By Katelyn Polantz and Colleen Shalby