By: Chloé Richards For generations, the right to vote was a distant dream for Black Americans—fought for in court- rooms, on the streets, and at the ballot box. Today, young Black voters carry that legacy with every bal- lot they cast, viewing voting not just as a right but as a tribute to those who battled for this freedom. The struggle for Black voting rights is more than a chapter in history—it’s a legacy that continues to shape the lives of today’s young Black voters. While the 15th and 19th Amendments marked pivotal victories, the lingering effects of Jim Crow laws and ongoing voter suppression serve as reminders that this hard-won right must be actively protected. Many young Black voters draw inspiration from the progress made in representation, particularly with the election of Kamala Harris as the first Black female Vice President. “The progress made has been so inspiring to see,” said Mia Hall, 22. “To know and understand that Black having a Black woman running for President is such an amazing sight to see.” For Hall, this representation serves as a powerful motivation, reminding her that she has a voice in the political arena. “No matter the outcome, at least I know I can, and I will make a change that my ancestors had only a dream to do,” she said. Historically, the 15th Amendment (1870) prohibited the federal and state governments from denying citizens the right to vote based on “race, color, or previous condition of servitude.” However, many Southern states implemented Jim Crow laws that enacted literacy tests, poll taxes, and other discriminatory practices that disenfranchised Black voters. Similarly, the 19th Amendment (1920) granted women the right to vote but did not fully include Black women, who faced both racial and gender discrimination. Even after these amendments, the struggle for Black voting rights continued, culmilnating in the Civil Rights Movement and the eventual passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Kashia Hastings, 24, reflects on how these historical struggles fuel her determination to vote. “Knowing that our ancestors fought hard for our ability to vote makes […]

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