Friday, September 27, 2024

Suffrage Song: The Haunted History of Gender, Race and Voting Rights in the U.S. by Caitlin Cass

 



Reviewed by Kristin

This graphic novel packs a lot about the right to vote in the United States into its pages in a very accessible format. From the early Suffragists who never were able to vote (Lucretia Mott, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglass, among others) to the later activists following in their footsteps through the Civil Rights era around the 1940s-1960s, this book presents an enormous amount of information. The graphic format makes it engaging and entertaining, avoiding the pitfalls of some scholarly works.

Moving forward in a mostly linear fashion, the narrative sometimes includes side stories to illustrate the suppressive societal expectations faced by both women and minorities. In the “New Women” era of the 1900s-1920s, women began to question tradition and stretch their boundaries. While dressing in clothing that allowed women to move and take more risks, the bicycle was a natural choice for many. However, male doctors began to warn that bicycles could be harmful and lead to “bicycle face” (for women only, naturally) and this could include bug eyes, a red complexion, and a permanent grimace.

The push and pull between suffrage for women and racial minorities is also discussed. Many who believed that women should be allowed the vote were not willing to take on the vote equality for all, as they saw votes for white women much more achievable than universal suffrage.

The bibliography at the end is extensive, showing the in depth research done by Caitlin Cass. Organization names and dates are also mentioned, along with popular songs included in the book.

This book is timely, no matter your political or partisan views. 2024 is an election year, and I strongly believe that we should all speak our minds at the ballot box.

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