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disenfranchise

verb

/ˌdɪsɪnˈfran(t)ʃʌɪz/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of disenfranchise

To deny someone the right to vote or participate in the political process.
"The decision to remove language assistance can disenfranchise non-native speakers."

Detailed meaning of disenfranchise

This can happen through various means, such as through laws or policies that restrict voting rights, through the manipulation of voting districts, or through intimidation or harassment of voters. Disenfranchisement can also refer to the state of being denied the right to vote. This can occur for a variety of reasons, such as because of one's race, gender, age, socioeconomic status, or criminal history. Disenfranchisement can also be used to describe the act of removing someone's rights, privileges or opportunities in general, not only restricted to voting rights. The term "disenfranchisement" is a combination of "dis-" meaning "to remove" and "franchise" meaning "a right to vote." Disenfranchisement is often viewed as a violation of democratic principles and can have a negative impact on the political representation of marginalized groups.

Example sentences containing disenfranchise

1. Politicians should never disenfranchise any group of voters.
2. The new law aims to disenfranchise certain minority communities.
3. The decision to close polling stations could disenfranchise rural voters.
4. Attempts to manipulate the voter registration process can disenfranchise eligible voters.
5. We must ensure that no one is unfairly disenfranchised during the election.
6. The law was specifically designed to disenfranchise low-income neighborhoods.

History and etymology of disenfranchise

The verb 'disenfranchise' has its etymological roots in Old French and Latin. It is formed by combining 'dis,' which signifies 'not' or 'the opposite of,' and 'enfranchise,' which is derived from Old French 'enfranchir' and Latin 'francus,' meaning 'free' or 'unrestricted.' Therefore, 'disenfranchise' can be understood as 'to make someone not free' or 'to deprive someone of their rights.' In the context of politics and civil rights, it refers to the act of denying someone the right to vote or participate in the political process, thus restricting their freedom and equal participation in society. The term 'disenfranchise' emphasizes the deprivation of a fundamental democratic right, underscoring its historical connection to the struggle for equal suffrage and civil rights.

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Further usage examples of disenfranchise

1. The government's actions are a clear attempt to disenfranchise dissenting voices.
2. Any attempt to limit voting access will disenfranchise marginalized communities.
3. The discriminatory practices seek to disenfranchise minority populations.
4. The proposed identification requirements may disenfranchise elderly voters.
5. Laws that target student voting can disenfranchise young people.
6. Disenfranchising voters based on their economic status is unjust.
7. We must fight against any attempt to disenfranchise the disabled community.
8. The new policy is a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise specific demographic groups.
9. The electoral system should be inclusive and should not disenfranchise any eligible citizens.
10. Restrictive voting laws can disproportionately disenfranchise people of color.
11. Disenfranchising certain neighborhoods will undermine the democratic process.
12. We need to address systemic issues that disenfranchise marginalized communities.
13. The new voter ID laws aim to disenfranchise minority voters.
14. Gerrymandering can disenfranchise entire communities unfairly.
15. Some argue that voter suppression tactics disenfranchise citizens.
16. Disenfranchise voters often seek legal remedies for their rights.
17. Civic education is crucial to prevent disenfranchisement.
18. Civil rights activists work tirelessly to combat disenfranchisement.
19. Disenfranchise tactics can undermine the democratic process.
20. Advocates fight to end practices that disenfranchise voters.
21. Reducing polling stations can unintentionally disenfranchise voters.
22. Disenfranchise efforts often face legal challenges in court.
23. Voter empowerment is essential to counter disenfranchisement.