Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

I was raised in the house of Civil Rights Icons, only I didn't know it. To me, they were just momma and daddy. As I began reading my dad's old laminated scrapbook, I gained valuable knowledge and insight on just what my dad, Dr. John I. Reddix, DDS, and many others had sacrificed here in Ouachita Parish and what we, as their descendants, gained in the process.

I'd like to share my findings through a series of articles highlighting the events surrounding voter suppression in Ouachita Parish and the movement later known as the civil rights movement of the 60's and 70's. THE PURGE - In May 1956, Ouachita Parish Voter Registrar Mae Lucky, under the direction and influence of the White Citizen Council, purged thousands of "negroes" from the voters' polls. The only thing needed for a voter to be taken off the poll was for two citizens to challenge their legality and legitimacy to vote. As a result of this capricious law, many law-abiding citizens were illegally taken off the polls right before elections. They would have to reapply and prove their legitimacy to be put back on the poll. They even had to pass a test just to vote. Needless to say, this caused quite a disturbance in our community, but our young leaders were up to the challenge. Next week I will discuss the how and why of this action. Until next time. Cherish your rights, protect what was given, and fight for what is right.