Persistence: Evelyn Butts and the African American Quest for Full Citizenship and Self-Determination

Dive into the inspiring journey of Evelyn Thomas Butts in "Persistence: Evelyn Butts and the African American Quest for Full Citizenship and Self-Determination." This compelling narrative, published on June 10, 2021, explores the life of a courageous seamstress whose actions transcended her humble beginnings in Norfolk, Virginia. Known for her pivotal lawsuit that led to the 1966 U.S. Supreme Court ruling outlawing poll taxes in state and local elections, Butts' story doesn't end there. Author Dr. Kenneth Cooper Alexander unfolds the extensive impact of her grassroots activism, which not only reshaped the voting landscape but also reinforced the political engagement of African Americans and poor Whites. This book is an essential read for those in adult education programs, providing a profound look at the intersections of racial justice and voting rights. It prompts critical reflection on how one individual's resolve can trigger significant social and political change.