Know Your History

Independence Day, July 4th was just celebrated by many. In 1776, on July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject (and subordinate) to the monarch of Britain, King George III, and were now united, free, and independent states. That Declaration of Independence did not free enslaved Africans or give White women equal rights.

In 1870 the 15th Amendment passed and states: “The 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.” It wasn’t until the 19th Amendment to the constitution that passed in 1920 that specifically gave women “equal” rights to vote as men

Even after these Constitutional Amendments were passed, access to voting became something to fight for, not a granted right. Voter suppression was prevalent throughout our country and became the way to keep our voices from being heard. In 2020, many states are still practicing various means and methods of voter suppression. Illinois is not one of those states. You can vote early. You can vote absentee ballot and you can request a mail-in ballot. You have no excuse.

Thanks to AARP for the census information and continued support.