Discuss the historic policies that were used in Texas to deny access to the ballot. How have some of those policies been changed, and have those changes assured equal participation and representation by all groups?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Identify and explain the operation of poll taxes, the white primary, registration requirements, and property ownership requirements.
2. Explain the role of the federal government and federal action through constitutional amendments, Supreme Court decisions, the Voting Rights Act, and motor voter registration in eliminating barriers and facilitating participation.
3. Explain that differences in participation rates still exist, with Anglos typically voting at higher rates than others.
4. Explain that gerrymandering and at-large district elections in some local elections still work against minority representation.
5. Explain the provisions of Texas's voter identification law and critics' concerns about its effects on participation.