We Shall Not Be Denied: A Timeline of Voting Rights and Suppression in America

Gr 4-8–A succinct and approachable exploration of voting rights and suppression in the United States. This work uses a time line format to present an eye-opening account of the widespread disenfranchisement of voters from marginalized groups since the foundation of this country. From the three-fifths compromise of 1787, when representatives from the colonies agreed to count enslaved people as only three-fifths of a person each, readers will learn how the right to vote was slowly extended to white immigrants, Black men with land, white women, and eventually, BIPOC groups. This book also points out laws, amendments, and Supreme Court decisions that either granted or denied many the right to vote and citizenship. It wasn’t until 2020 that Native Americans living on reservations had voting protections. Alarmingly, over half of the states have presented laws to limit voting rights in 2023. While the narrative is dry at times, the spare and straightforward text makes this topic accessible and digestible. Large, bright photos; a red, white, and blue color scheme; maps, diagrams, and lots of white space make this text engaging and very readable. The Supreme Court case decisions are summarized on a parchment-looking background, and in keeping with the chronology focus, the specific year of each decision is marked by a red banner. The final section focuses on how students, even if they’re not eligible to vote, can take action in state and local government. Back matter includes discussion questions, glossary, further reading, and an index.