Letter: Every citizen deserves right to vote

Voting is the right of every citizen in a democracy. The right to vote cannot be earned nor is it a privilege that can be taken away. Voting is the essence of citizenship in a democracy.

The League of Women Voters supports the ACLU for bringing the Griffin vs. Branstad suit being considered by the Iowa Supreme Court. The suit calls for the Supreme Court to clarify the meaning of 'infamous crime,” which the Iowa Constitution cites as a reason to disenfranchise a voter. 'Infamous” is defined here in Iowa as any felony, but the suit asks that only serious crimes that are an 'affront to democratic governance” be considered reasons for disenfranchisement. Iowa's practice of forever denying the vote to felons makes us one of only three states that permanently disenfranchise felons. Maine and Vermont even allow voting while still in prison.

Many studies show that recidivism and reoffending are reduced when former offenders reintegrate into society. Being received back into our electorate is a vital part of that reintegration.

The League of Women Voters is looking forward to the day when everyone's right to vote is honored and safeguarded in Iowa.

Myrna Loehrlein

President, LWV Linn County

Bonnie Pitz

President, LWV Iowa