What’s on the Table for Voting Rights in Texas?

By Kainat Rajput
Voting rights remain a vital part of democracy, providing every eligible citizen some voice in building his or her community, state, and nation. On March 18, 2025, Houston Ethnic Media coordinated a crucial briefing entitled “What’s on the Table for Voting Rights in Texas?”, which took place at the Southern News Group in Houston, Texas. The conference brought together eminent leaders and experts in the field of voter advocacy to discuss legislative developments, challenges, and some ways to improve voter access and protect election integrity in Texas.
Understanding the Significance of Voting Rights in Texas
Since time immemorial, Texas has played host to vigorous discussions regarding voting rights and election laws due to the changing nature of electoral policies and demographic dilemmas. With the ongoing Texas 89th Legislative Session, certain key proposals affecting access to the polls are being considered. On the other hand, the Houston Ethnic Media briefing set out to delve a little deeper into these unfolding events, their possible implications, and the larger picture for Texas voters.
Key Topics Discussed at the Briefing: The discussion covered several critical aspects of voting rights, including:
• Introduction to the roles and responsibilities of key organizations advocating for voter access.
• Addressing top concerns regarding voter suppression and access in Texas during this legislative session.
• Specific issues affecting marginalized communities and target audiences.
• Available resources for organizations aiming to amplify their efforts in ensuring fair voting rights.
• The role of ethnic media and community members in supporting advocacy efforts.
Esteemed Panel of Speakers: A distinguished panel of voting rights advocates shared their insights during the briefing, each contributing their expertise on various aspects of voter engagement and protection.

1. Emily French – Director of Policy at Common Cause Texas
   She has been advocating for the election protection and more voter reforms for the State of Texas. In her position as Election Protection staff attorney at the Texas Civil Rights Project (TCRP), Emily trained over 1200 mostly volunteer associates to offer non-partisan assistance to voters. Her work with the Texas Legislature over the 2019, 2021, and 2023 legislative sessions has an extensive track record of improving accessibility to voting for Texans.
2. Carl Blair – Senior Election Protection Attorney, Texas Civil Rights Project

As a Senior Election Protection Attorney in TCRP, Carl Blair has spearheaded various statewide Election Protection initiatives since 2020. Holding degrees in political science and law, Carl has spent the balance of his career defending the cause of voting rights, election protection, and democratic participation. His work on political, environmental, and election-related legal campaigns cements his work in the area of guarding voter access.

3. Jesus Zamora – Texas Field Director, Mi Familia en Acción

He has been involved in community organizing for over a decade, having started his involvement as Secretary of the Alief Super Neighborhood. After this, he sought out a place on the Alief Independent School District Board of Trustees. In civic engagement for many years, he now serves as the Executive Director of Mi Familia Vota & Mi Familia en Acción, which promotes voter education and mobilization within the Latino community.

4. Katie Campbell Shumway – Executive Director, League of Women Voters of Houston

An ardent supporter of democracy and voter education, Katie Campbell Shumway has wielded the magic wand of transformation over the League of Women Voters of Houston. Since her arrival, the League increased membership outreach almost 900 percent, inaugurated full-time staff members, and adopted new strategies-primarily digital ones-to attract voters. Important through varying initiatives like youth voter activation programs and interactive digital tools in making civic engagement accessible.
The Challenges and Opportunities in Texas’ Voting Landscape
The speakers laid out a number of challenges Texas voters face: restrictive voter ID laws, fewer polling locations in underserved communities, and misleading information about voter registration. However, they also pointed out opportunities that include community-driven voter education programs, legal advocacy for fair election practices, and digital resources that enhance voter participation.
Interactive Q&A Session: The interactive question-and-answer session that followed gave the audience an opportunity to engage the speakers. Questions by representatives of the media, community members, and advocacy groups focused on applicable legislative changes, possible voter suppression tools, and the solutions needed to assure free elections in Texas. In rebuttals, the panelists emphasized the crucial importance of organizing and dialogue going forward on voting rights.
Networking and Individual Interviews: The event closed out with a networking event, where participants were able to mingle with speakers, advocacy organizations, and other members of the community. Through interviews, further conversations proceeded regarding strategies to bridge voters’ participation and their main concerns within differing communities. The contest would allow lunch to be served by Phoenicia Specialty Foods in a way to encourage interaction and conversation.
The Role of Ethnic Media in Shaping the Narrative: Ethnic media exists to see that diverse voices are included in any discourse revolving around the voting rights. Outlets like Houston Ethnic Media go a long way in providing such a source for an accurate intelligence gathering about voter access issues while empowering marginalized populations to engage in the elections. Events such as this briefing would cover by ethnic media organizations and contribute immensely towards fighting for democracy and fair representation.
Conclusion: Moving Forward in the Fight for Voting Rights:
The “What’s on the Table for Voting Rights in Texas?” was a powerful and informative event shedding light into pressing issues surrounding Texas voters. Equipped with insights from dedicated experts and community leaders, one would be able to leave the event knowing more on what the legislative landscape looks like and what steps it takes to protect voting rights. It rekindled the spirit of solidarity, advocacy, and media engagement in making a fair and accessible electoral system.
Such events will continue to be relevant, informing, and encouraging dialogue among reform so that every citizen may be heard inside the ballot box as Texas negotiates these complex voting laws and policies. The struggle for voting rights is far from over, but such dedication and collaboration makes a bright and democratic future within reach.