Thursday, October 1

“Gloria Baxter helped her mother secure the purple, white, and gold sash across her chest.”

“Gloria’s mother had ended up in jail several times for marching in front of the White House.”

“Fortunately, Gloria’s father supported his wife and took care of the family during those times.”

“‘I hope today will mark the end of marching and the beginning of voting,’ Mrs. Baxter told her husband and daughter.”

“I’m so grateful for your help all these many months.”

“It was Election Day in 1980, and they were leaving the house early to vote before going to work.”

“‘You know, when I came back from ‘Nam, I was 20 years old and couldn’t vote for another year,’ Eddie said.”

“‘I guess I’m really lucky since I just turned 18 last week, and today I get to vote for president,’ Franco said.”

“‘Getting to vote is about the greatest birthday gift ever,’ Eddie said, grinning.”

“‘I never thought of it that way,’ Franco said, ‘but you’re right.’”