Question

A Letter to the Editor

Directions: Imagine it is 1892 and you are a well-known journalist from NYC who has visited Louisiana. You have
witnessed firsthand the Plessy v. Ferguson trial and want to tell others about your experience. Write a letter to the
editor of the New York Times about the case. The goal of the letter is to teach people about the case and to inform
them of the outcome. Complete the graphic organizer before you write your letter so that your information is
organized.
Who:
What:
The Case:
The Ruling:
The Outcome:

Answer 1

Dear Editor,

I recently returned from Louisiana, where I had the opportunity to witness the Plessy v. Ferguson trial firsthand. This case was an important moment in our nation’s history, and I am writing to share my experience and inform your readers of the outcome of the case.

Homer Plessy, an African-American man, challenged the constitutionality of the Separate Car Act, a Louisiana law that mandated racial segregation on all public transportation. The Supreme Court ruled that the law was constitutional, upholding the separate but equal doctrine.

The outcome of this case set a dangerous precedent, one that allowed racial segregation to continue in the United States for over half a century. This ruling gave states the authority to enforce discriminatory laws and ultimately resulted in a significant decline in the rights of African-Americans.

The Plessy v. Ferguson trial is a reminder that we must remain vigilant in our fight for justice and equality for all Americans. We must continue to challenge laws that oppress and discriminate against any group of people.

Sincerely, [Your Name]