Write a two minute persuasive speech against a specific Reconstruction era policy such as poll tax, literacy test, the grandfather clause, segregation in public places, lynchings, or any of the specific black codes. In your speech explain what is wrong with the policy or law you have selected, explain why it shouldn’t be followed or put into practice. Explain what policy or law should be put in its place, if any. Be as convincing or persuasive as possible. Use your textbook and other reliable sources to obtain information before writing your speech. List your sources on the bottom or back of your speech. Prepare to deliver your speech to the class.

Answer 1

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to address a grave injustice that has plagued our nation during the Reconstruction era. I speak against a specific policy that has caused immense harm to our society - the poll tax. This policy, along with others such as literacy tests, the grandfather clause, and black codes, has been used to deliberately disenfranchise a significant portion of our citizens, specifically targeting African Americans.

The poll tax is not only a violation of the principles upon which our nation was founded but is also an affront to the very idea of democracy. It effectively denies the fundamental right to vote to individuals who are unable to pay a fee. How can we claim to be a nation that supports equal representation when we prevent those who cannot afford the tax from having a voice in our government? This policy serves as a barrier that perpetuates inequality and silences the voices of the marginalized.

The poll tax, just like other Reconstruction era policies, is rooted in discrimination and racism. Its sole purpose is to maintain the oppressive systems that perpetuate the subjugation of African Americans. By imposing this tax, we are proclaiming that wealth determines the worth of a citizen's voice and that participation in democracy is a privilege reserved only for the privileged. This is not the vision of our founding fathers, who fought for a country where all men are created equal and endowed with certain unalienable rights, including the right to vote.

Furthermore, the poll tax selectively targets the poor, making it an even more deplorable policy. It pushes those already living in poverty further into despair, preventing them from having a say in shaping their own destiny. It denies equal opportunity and undermines the very concept of a fair and just society. We cannot claim to be a nation of progress if we continue to endorse policies that entrench the cycle of poverty and political inequality.

So, what should be done in place of this unjust policy? We must promote a vision of inclusivity and strive for a society where everyone has an equal opportunity to exercise their right to vote. Instead of poll taxes, we should be working towards policies that encourage and facilitate voter registration and participation. We need to remove barriers and ensure that every citizen, regardless of socioeconomic status, is empowered to make their voice heard.

Additionally, we must address the root causes of voter suppression. Education and awareness campaigns should be launched to inform citizens about their rights and provide resources to overcome the hurdles they may face. Accessible polling stations, fair redistricting, and the elimination of discriminatory regulations are vital to fostering a truly representative and democratic system.

In conclusion, the poll tax is a stain on our democracy and an outright violation of the principles on which our nation was founded. Let us not forget the injustices of the Reconstruction era and strive for a future where every citizen is guaranteed their right to vote. Together, we can dismantle these barriers and create a society that truly lives up to the ideals of liberty and justice for all.

Sources:
- "Give Me Liberty!: An American History" by Eric Foner
- "Reconstruction: America's Unfinished Revolution, 1863-1877" by Eric Foner