On this day in history, the 15th amendment to the Constitution was ratified.
Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
Section 2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.[2]
While it has been the law of the land for more than 150 years, the application of that law and the reality of full rights of people based on race or color have not been fully realized.
Ever present God, there have been hard fought victories in the battle to love our neighbors as ourselves over the generations. Help us discover our personal prejudices and to overcome the anxiety that often leads to hate when we let them guide our lives. May we continue to improve how we respond to each other in just and honorable ways. Break down the walls that divide us and help us to celebrate all that each person has to offer. Be present with us and guide us as we continue to figure out how to lift everyone up and help us to look toward your message of loving welcome with open arms as the example of how we should treat one another. May you empower our leaders to find ways to be true and just. All this we ask in your most Holy Name. Amen
Prayers for Challenging Times 