Consider This from NPR John Lewis Fought For Voting Rights His Entire Life. Why His Work Is Still Unfinished
Jul 28, 2020
Dive into the life of John Lewis, a civil rights icon whose fight for voting rights remains crucial today. Explore the significance of the Selma march and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, shedding light on ongoing discrimination. Discover the modern challenges to equitable voting access, especially for communities of color. Hear about recent legislative efforts aimed at restoring protections for minority voters, highlighting the ongoing need for collective action. Lewis's legacy serves as a powerful reminder that the struggle for voting rights is far from over.
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John Lewis's Legacy
- In 1963, a 23-year-old John Lewis spoke at the March on Washington, advocating for equal voting rights.
- Years later, he witnessed Barack Obama's inauguration and gifted him a signed note.
Selma and Bloody Sunday
- In 1965, Selma, Alabama, employed literacy tests and other tactics to suppress Black voters.
- John Lewis and others protested, leading to the infamous "Bloody Sunday" attack on the Edmund Pettus Bridge.
Modern Voting Barriers
- The Voting Rights Act of 1965 banned discriminatory voting practices like literacy tests.
- However, new barriers like polling place closures, equipment issues, and ID laws have emerged.