The Suffrage of Elvira

"The Suffrage of Elvira" is a 19th-century poem by the American writer Frances Ellen Watkins Harper. It addresses issues of race and gender, focusing on the struggle for women's suffrage, particularly for African American women. The poem portrays Elvira, a character who desires the right to vote, emphasizing the broader fight against oppression. Through Elvira's perspective, Harper critiques societal norms that deny marginalized voices, advocating for equality and justice. The work reflects the historical context of the suffrage movement, highlighting the intersection of race and gender in the quest for civil rights.