Time Schedule:
Gary M Segura
POL S 357
Seattle Campus
Explores whether and how African-Americans and Latinos are able to organize effectively and press their demands on the political system. Focuses on minority political behavior, the effect of these groups at the polls, the responsiveness of elected officials, and legal or constitutional obstacles affecting these phenomena.
Class description
Description: Non-whites now comprise over 30 % of the national population but continue to exercise comparatively little power and hold far fewer public offices than their numbers might suggest. Why is this the case? In this class, we'll examine the organizational and mobilization efforts of the African-American and Latino civil rights movements, and focus specifically on the question of access to the ballot box and to electing public officials. We'll trace the history of the Voting Rights Act and its implementation through the federal court system, and critically examine what legal and institutional remedies remain available to protect minority access to the halls of power. Finally, we'll ask whether and how minority elected officials represent the interests of their constituents, and take some time to look at specific interests and issues of importance to non-white citizens. The course includes both lecture and discussion, and will include quizzes, exams, and a research paper.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
