Many were surprised by the Supreme Court’s surprise ruling in favor of Black Alabamians regarding the redistricting of Congress. This decision has sparked celebrations across the country.

U.S. Rep. Terrie Sewell, representing District 7, the lone Black area in the proposed map said: “This is a historical victory, not just for Black voters in Alabama but also for Democracy.

The Supreme Court has made it clear that minorities’ voices matter, and that fair representation is required. I know John Lewis and the Foot Soldiers of the Voting Rights Movement smile as they look at us. “Today, their sacrifice has been rewarded.”

Merrick Garland, U.S. Attorney-General, said: “Today’s ruling rejects attempts to further erode protections for fundamental voting rights, and preserves that in the United States all eligible voters are entitled to exercise their constitutional right of vote without discrimination on the basis of their race.” “The right of voting is the cornerstone to our democracy. It’s the right that all other rights flow from.”

Evan Milligan, a Black Voter and the lead Plaintiff in the Case, told The Associated Press that the ruling was a win for democracy and peoples of color.

“We are thankful that the Supreme Court confirmed what we already knew: that every person deserves to have his or her vote count and to have their voice heard. “Today is a victory for democracy and liberty not only in Alabama, but throughout the United States,” Milligan stated.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin who spoke out against the proposed maps said: “The SCOTUS ruling today is a powerful knock to racial gerrymandering. The old map was clearly an attempt to reduce the power of Black Voters. “We will not tolerate the silencing of Black voices.”

In a tweet, Doug Jones, former U.S. Senator expressed his excitement over the decision. “WOW! It’s a big win for us all, not only in Alabama, but also for voting rights worldwide.

Anthony Davis, the minority leader of the Alabama House, released a press release.

We are happy that the Supreme Court has affirmed the decision by the district court, which unanimously found the Alabama maps discriminatory. We are ready to work with our colleagues in a meaningful way to create a map that complies fully with the law.

Alabama Young Democrats stated, “Today is a historic win for the Voting Right Act and all Black Voters in the State of Alabama!”