Give Us the Ballot—We Will Transform the South Summary and Analysis

The Supreme Court decision of May 17, 1954, filled the people of the South with hope. It struck down the Plessey v. Ferguson rule that allowed the separate but equal doctrine. Many states responded in open defiance, refusing to allow desegregation, using economic reprisals, violence and terror to prevent integration and justice. The greatest tragedy of this battle for integration was the denial of the vote. Without this right, Negro men and women would never have the right to choose for themselves as democratic citizens.

Men of justice would be elected to congress and the courts. In achieving justice, equity and integration, courageous, strong leaders were needed from four spheres of influence. First, federal leadership was urgently needed to step forward and give the vote...