Lizzie Demands a Seat!
Elizabeth Jennings Fights for Streetcar Rights
by Beth Anderson
illustrated by E. B. Lewis
Calkins Creek (Boyds Mills & Kane), 2020. 32 pages.
Review written April 22, 2020, from a library book
Starred Review
We’ve all heard of Rosa Parks, but in this book I learned about Lizzie Jennings, a free black woman who fought in court for her right to ride on streetcars with whites in New York State in 1854.
This picture book dramatizes her encounter. She was physically thrown off a streetcar on her way to church, but got right back on.
Five blocks later, the conductor hailed an officer.
Again a crowd gathered and watched in silence.
“Officer,” said the conductor, “the passengers object to this woman’s presence. It’s my duty to remove her.”
“No one objected!” Lizzie said, leaping up. “I have rights!”
The officer forced her off the streetcar. “Make your complaint. You’ll not get far.
Lizzie did go to court about it, with her whole community behind her. Her lawyer was Chester Arthur – who later became President of the United States.
The whole story is dramatic and inspiring. I’d had no idea that African Americans also had to fight for rights in the North – of course that shows my ignorance. It’s always good to read about someone standing up for what’s right. And especially good when they win rights for others as well.
The book is beautifully illustrated, with a nice variety of scenes pictured and a focus on faces. I’m glad this story is being told.
bethandersonwriter.com
eblewis.com
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Source: This review is based on a library book from Fairfax County Public Library.
Disclaimer: I am a professional librarian, but the views expressed are solely my own, and in no way represent the official views of my employer or of any committee or group of which I am part.
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