The Unsung Heroes Who Made Sure You Could Grow Up To Vote: A History of Children in the Voting Rights Movement

The history of children in the voting rights movement is a story of courage, determination, and hope. From the early days of the movement, when children were often seen as mere bystanders, to the present day, when they are recognized as powerful advocates for change, children have played a vital role in the fight for voting rights.

People Who Made Sure You Could Grow up to Vote! | Children's Modern History

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This article tells the stories of some of the most influential children in the movement, and explores the ways in which they have made a difference.

The Early Years

The voting rights movement began in the United States in the mid-19th century, with the passage of the 15th Amendment to the Constitution, which granted African American men the right to vote. However, this amendment was not fully enforced, and many African Americans were still denied the right to vote. In the early 20th century, a new wave of activism emerged, led by organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). These organizations worked to register African American voters and challenge discriminatory laws and practices.

Children were not initially involved in the voting rights movement. They were often seen as too young to understand the issues or to make a difference. However, as the movement grew, children began to play a more active role. They participated in protests, marches, and boycotts. They also worked to register voters and educate their communities about the importance of voting.

The Children's Crusade

In 1963, a group of children in Birmingham, Alabama, organized a march to protest the city's segregated schools. The march was met with violence by the police, and several children were arrested. The incident sparked outrage across the country, and it helped to galvanize support for the voting rights movement.

The children who participated in the Birmingham Children's Crusade were not the only ones who took part in the movement. Children from all over the country participated in protests, marches, and boycotts. They also worked to register voters and educate their communities about the importance of voting.

The Voting Rights Act of 1965

In 1965, Congress passed the Voting Rights Act, which outlawed discriminatory voting practices and established federal oversight of voter registration and elections in areas with a history of racial discrimination. The Voting Rights Act was a major victory for the voting rights movement, and it helped to increase voter turnout among African Americans.

Children played a role in the passage of the Voting Rights Act. They lobbied Congress, testified before committees, and participated in protests. Their efforts helped to convince Congress to pass the bill.

The Legacy of the Children's Crusade

The Children's Crusade was a turning point in the voting rights movement. It showed the world that children were not just bystanders in the struggle for civil rights. They were active participants, and they played a vital role in the movement's success.

The legacy of the Children's Crusade continues today. Children continue to play an active role in the fight for voting rights. They are involved in voter registration drives, education campaigns, and protests. They are also working to ensure that the Voting Rights Act is fully enforced.

The history of children in the voting rights movement is a story of courage, determination, and hope. Children have played a vital role in the fight for voting rights, and they continue to be active participants in the movement today. Their efforts have helped to make the United States a more democratic and just society.

References

• Carson, Clayborne. In Struggle: SNCC and the Black Awakening of the 1960s. Harvard University Press, 1981.
• Morris, Aldon D. The Origins of the Civil Rights Movement: Black Communities Organizing for Change. The Free Press, 1984.
• Sitkoff, Harvard. The Struggle for Black Equality: 1954-1992. Hill and Wang, 1993.

People Who Made Sure You Could Grow up to Vote! | Children's Modern History

by Baby Professor

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2756 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	411 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE