IP CAPSTONE PROJECT 2020
In my research, I came across several articles and journals that highlighted the complexity of voter suppression in America.
FROM THE MAYFLOWER TO THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT: A BRIEF HISTORY OF VOTING IN AMERICA
Voting has been an integral part of being an American citizen but it has been a constant struggle for many groups to be able to cast their vote. From 1620 to the Civil Rights Movement, Americans had to struggle through an uphill battle to participate in democracy.
THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT: 1965 AND 2013
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 continued to be questioned in courts across the country during the end of the 20th century but the Supreme Court’s ruling in a 2013 case made a permanent change to the act’s effectiveness.
WHY TUESDAY IN NOVEMBER?
While it may seem impractical to hold the election during the week today, in the 1800s, the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November was the best fit.
VOTING BY MAIL IN PENNSYLVANIA? DON’T FORGET YOUR SECOND ENVELOPE!
Pennsylvania’s requirement of a secrecy ballot added another step to the confusing list of boxes voters must check to cast their ballot. Additionally, late changes to election procedures and unclear deadlines make voting more difficult for residents.
POLL WATCHING: ILLEGAL OR LEGAL
As claims of a fraudulent election spread across the country, observing voting and ballot counting became a hot topic in the 2020 election. But, what is poll watching and how is it different from voter intimidation?
WISCONSIN’S VOTER ID LAWS
Wisconsin has a long history with voter ID laws, but how are these laws affecting Wisconsinites today?
VOTER SUPPRESSION VS VOTER FRAUD
Republicans claimed widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election, while Democrats cited voter suppression as the real issue. What is the difference and what does it say about America’s political landscape?
LONG LINES THAT LEAD TO CLOSED DOORS: VOTING DURING A PANDEMIC
Pennsylvania’s overwhelmed voting system made for an election full of misinformation and long lines. One Democratic field worker describes her experiences in the thick of it all, saying the voters, who waited hours in line, are “the real heroes of the election.”
THE ELECTION’S HISTORIC VICTORY AND HOW TO KEEP MOVING FORWARD
Amidst the craziness and sadness that the 2020 election brought, it is important to celebrate the record-high turnout.