I should note that the Latino community has a long history. especially in the Southwest. where there were settlements in this country long before the Pilgrims made it to the shores of the east coast. But Latinos have also suffered from poll taxes. white primaries and intimidation. Throughout the history of the Southwest it was very difficult for Latinos to participate in the process because literacy tests or language barriers were imposed. but the Voting Rights Act has made it possible for real progress to be achieved. I think it is clear to say that the doubling of Latino elected officials over the last 10 to 15 years. the increase in voter participation by Latinos. oh. say from 1975 from about 1.5 million to over 3 million are marked increases that deserve recognition especially for the Voting Rights Act. I can go on and on and talk about how things are improving not just in the southwest. but in New York City where there has been a 17percent Increase in the number of Latinos who are registered to vote.
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literacy tests