Despite the fact I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, I strive to avoid political posts/discussions. This is NOT a political post or discussion. However, as we approach our midterm election in a few weeks (November 6, 2018), I want to encourage all American citizens to exercise your rights and vote, regardless of your political affiliation or party.
The 15th Amendment to the Constitution states, “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 made.” This made it legal for African American men to vote. However, it says nothing about gender. Historically, the plight of women was also bad. Similar to Blacks, women of all colors were treated as property. Realizing nothing would ever change without the right to vote for themselves, women protested and demanded the right to vote. Suffragettes, were arrested, beaten, force-fed and even killed to help secure the rights of women to be heard. Women were finally granted the right to vote in 1920 by the 19th Amendment to the Constitution.
Jim Crow laws implemented in mostly southern states were instituted after the Civil War, during the reconstruction, which enforced segregation and racism and promoted the concept of “separate but equal.” Even though the 15th Amendment to the Constitution gave all Americans the right to vote, some states continued to prevent Blacks and poor whites by implementing poll taxes and literacy tests. Realizing the importance of this vital right, men and women protested, marched, fought and implemented acts of civil disobedience which often resulted in beatings, prison, and sometimes death. These laws were not deemed unconstitutional until the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson.
My parents both attended segregated schools. My mom used to tell stories which would curl your hair of things done ‘legally’ to people she knew. As an African American Woman, I often think about the brave men and women who sacrificed so much so that my life could be better. It saddens me to hear people say they aren’t going to vote because their vote won’t change anything. I don’t believe that’s true. Each and every vote count. Maybe your candidate won’t get elected. However, by going to the polls and casting your vote, you are making a statement. You are saying, I have a voice, and my voice matters
I don’t enjoy standing in line waiting to cast my ballot; however, I vote in every election I can, whether it’s a presidential election year or not. Even if I’m only voting for a county tax assessor, I take pride in knowing that I can vote. So, please exercise your right and go to the polls on November 6th and cast your ballot. That ends this public service announcement!