WASHINGTON, D.C. - National leaders and activists will hold a candlelight vigil Tuesday to call on Congress to restore the protections in the Voting Rights Act (VRA) and ensure that every eligible voter can make their voices heard free from discrimination.

The VRA was signed into law on Aug. 6, 1965 and improved voting rights and voter turnout for black, brown, Native and Asian Americans, but the U.S. Supreme Court gutted the law in its 2013 Shelby County v. Holder decision.

The ruling made it easier for states and localities to revert back to discriminatory practices that restrict voting rights.

Earlier this year, congressional lawmakers introduced the Voting Rights Advancement Act (VRAA) (HR 4), which would restore the nation’s ability to prevent racial, age and ability discrimination in voting. Groups and community leaders at this vigil will call on policy makers to finally address the injustices caused by the 2013 Shelby decision.

The Washington, D.C. event is one of 17 events happening nationwide.