According to Religion News Service, a coalition of Black church leaders will conduct a protest march in Selma, Alabama, this weekend to advocate for the restoration of the Voting Rights Act. The organizers intend to assemble at the Tabernacle Baptist Church for an initial gathering before proceeding across the Edmund Pettus Bridge.
The demonstration comes in response to recent judicial rulings that participants argue have weakened federal oversight of election laws. The marchers intend to walk from the historic bridge toward the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery to highlight their concerns regarding the current legal status of voting protections.
Organizers stated that the event serves as a public declaration against the perceived erosion of access to the ballot box. They noted that the march is designed to draw attention to the historical significance of the location, where civil rights activists faced violent opposition during voting rights campaigns in 1965.
The Reverend William Barber II, a prominent organizer of the event, stated, “We must stand firm against the dismantling of these essential protections.”
Participants from various denominations are expected to attend, representing a broad cross-section of regional faith-based institutions. Local law enforcement officials have been notified of the route and are preparing for potential traffic disruptions along the path to the state capital.
The organizers plan to hold a series of public speeches upon reaching their destination in Montgomery. These addresses will focus on the legislative history of the Voting Rights Act and the specific impacts of recent court decisions on minority voter participation.
The coalition indicated that this march is the first in a series of planned actions aimed at influencing federal policy. They intend to maintain a presence in the state capital to meet with lawmakers and discuss potential legislative remedies.
Official statements regarding the march have been issued by several participating organizations, confirming their commitment to non-violent protest. The event is scheduled to conclude on Sunday evening, following the final rally at the state capitol grounds.
Source: https://religionnews.com/2026/05/15/black-church-leaders-will-march-in-selma-over-erosion-of-voting-rights-act/