NAACP Alexandria Branch Condemns Virginia Supreme Court Decision Overturning Voter-Approved Redistricting Referendum

Alexandria, VA — The NAACP Alexandria Branch strongly condemns the Virginia Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the temporary redistricting referendum approved by voters on April 21. This ruling disregards the will of Alexandrians who cast their ballots in favor of fairer congressional maps and undermines the democratic process that residents across the Commonwealth fought to protect.

The Alexandria Branch joined NAACP units statewide in mobilizing voters, educating communities, and combating disinformation to ensure that every Virginian understood what was at stake. Together, NAACP volunteers contacted more than 150,000 Black voters, including thousands in Northern Virginia, to support the referendum and defend equitable representation.

“This decision silences the voices of voters who participated in good faith and demanded fairness in our electoral system,” said Darrlynn Franklin, President of the NAACP Alexandria Branch. “Alexandrians stood in line, made a plan, and cast their ballots to protect their voting power. Today’s ruling disregards our voices and weakens the democratic principles we work every day to uphold.”

The referendum, approved by voters in April, sought to establish temporary congressional maps to ensure a fairer and more accountable process ahead of the November midterm elections. Despite this clear mandate, a Tazewell County Circuit Court judge blocked certification of the vote, claiming the amendment and ballot language were unconstitutional — a decision now upheld by the Virginia Supreme Court.

“This ruling is an affront to every Virginian who believes in transparency, accountability, and equal representation,” Ms. Franklin added. “But let me be clear: the NAACP Alexandria Branch will not retreat. We will continue to fight for civil rights, human rights, equity, and inclusion; at the ballot box, in the courts, in Alexandria and in every community across Virginia.”

The NAACP Alexandria Branch remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting voting rights and ensuring that every resident has an equal voice in the democratic process. The Branch will continue working alongside the NAACP Virginia State Conference and the national NAACP to explore all legal, legislative, and community-based avenues to restore the will of the voters.

As the midterm elections approach, the Alexandria Branch will intensify its voter education and mobilization efforts to ensure that every eligible voter is informed, empowered, and ready to participate.