How a Poor Virginia Seamstress Took on Jim Crow, beat the poll tax and changed her city forever

Fearless tells the story of Evelyn Butts, a Virginia seamstress who challenged laws that required people to pay a poll tax in order to vote.

Her case helped lead to the Supreme Court decision that ended poll taxes in state elections.

Why This Story Matters

This story highlights the courage of ordinary citizens who stood up against unfair laws and helped shape the rights we have today.

Evelyn Butts was Charlene Butts Ligon’s mother. Her story is not only a part of American history, but part of her family’s legacy.