Session #89 · 1965–67

Speech #890085180

The real question we are concerned with. I think. is the scope of the remedy to be provided. Surely enough evidence has been presented to justify action by this body which will bring an end to the discriminatory tests and devices which bar Negro citizens from exercising their right to vote. ridding ourselves of socalled literacy tests which in one section of the country require that a darkskinned citizen be able to recite and interpret the Constitution. while in other sections a man of lighter complexion need know only how to sign his name. And just as surely must we recognize the need for impartial Federal examiners in voting districts where there continues to be a pattern of denial of the right to register or vote. Nor can we overlook the inconsistency of banning literacy tests as a prerequisite to voting while at the same time leaving untouched the poll taxwhich is actually an even more widespread and effective means of discrimination. While the 24th amendment abolished the poll tax in Federal elections. it did not cover State and local elections. The assumption was that this would not be necessary because it would be impractical for a State to maintain separate voter lists for Federal and State elections.
Identified stereotypes
Generalization about dark-skinned citizens being subjected to discriminatory literacy tests.
Keywords matched
literacy tests

Classification

Target group
None Specific
Sentiment
Positive
Stereotyping
⚠️ Yes
Confidence
90%
Model
gemini-2.0-flash
Framing
Legal / procedural Victim

Speaker & context

Speaker
THOMAS ASHLEY
Party
D
Chamber
H
State
OH
Gender
M
Date
Speech ID
890085180
Paragraph
#0
← Prev Next →