how did fannie lou hamer bring about a POSITIVE change in America today
http://www.answers.com/Q/What_countries_are_on_the_ring_of_fire
She brought the civil rights struggle in Mississippi to the attention of the entire nation during a televised session at the convention.
No! That was for another question. Here's Ms. Hamer:
http://www.biography.com/people/fannie-lou-hamer-205625
thank you bobpursley
thank you reed
Fannie Lou Hamer, an African American civil rights activist, played a significant role in bringing about positive change in America. She fought against racial segregation and voting discrimination, primarily in Mississippi during the 1960s. Here are a few ways in which Fannie Lou Hamer brought about positive change:
1. Activism and Organization: Fannie Lou Hamer was actively involved in organizing and mobilizing African Americans in Mississippi to fight for their civil rights. She co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP), an alternative political party that campaigned for African American representation and voting rights. Through grassroots activism and organizing, she challenged the discriminatory practices of the Jim Crow era.
2. Voting Rights: Hamer dedicated her efforts to ensuring equal voting rights for African Americans. In 1962, she attempted to register to vote but faced severe resistance, including harassment, threats, and economic reprisals. Despite these challenges, she persisted and became one of the first African Americans registered to vote in her county. Hamer's determination led her to co-chair the MFDP's delegation, which challenged the all-white Mississippi Democratic Party during the 1964 Democratic National Convention.
3. National Attention: Fannie Lou Hamer's powerful testimonies and speeches received national attention during the Democratic National Convention in 1964. Her testimony about being jailed, beaten, and sexually assaulted for attempting to register to vote shed light on the harsh realities faced by African Americans in the segregated South. Her courageous stand led to an increased national awareness and outcry against racial discrimination and voter suppression.
4. Legislation and Policy Changes: Hamer's activism contributed to the eventual passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This landmark legislation prohibited racial discrimination in voting practices and provided federal oversight to ensure fair and equal access to the voting process. Her testimony and advocacy were instrumental in pushing for this crucial legislation, which has since been pivotal in protecting voting rights for marginalized communities.
Overall, Fannie Lou Hamer brought about positive change through her tireless activism, organization, and advocacy for voting rights. Her efforts helped to dismantle systemic racial discrimination and played a significant role in advancing civil rights in America.