In Mamie Takes a Stand, Marie Chan shares the true story of Mamie Tape — a Chinese American girl who fought for school rights.
This book is an important and inspiring example of early civil rights struggles in the United States. Tape’s fight for the right to attend public school in San Francisco was not just about her own education but also about challenging racial discrimination and advocating for equal rights.
I was unfamiliar with Mamie Tape’s story. Here is a short timeline to better understand the history behind this book:
- 1849: The arrival of Chinese immigrants in San Francisco during the Gold Rush marks the beginning of a significant Chinese American community in the city.
- 1865: The end of the Civil War brings changes and shifts in American society, but racial and ethnic discrimination persist.
- 1876: Mamie Tape is born into this context, growing up in a time of increasing racial tension.
- 1882: The Chinese Exclusion Act is passed, restricting Chinese workers from coming to the US.
- 1884: Mamie Tape is barred from attending Spring Valley Primary School due to her Chinese heritage.
- January 1885: The California Superior Court rules in her favor, a landmark decision in the fight for educational equality.
- March 1885: The California Supreme Court upholds the ruling, affirming Mamie’s right to attend school.
Sian James’ illustrations, with their vibrant portrayal of early Chinatown and the contrasting atmosphere of Mamie’s quiet neighborhood, beautifully capture the cultural and environmental differences in America. The artwork highlights the richness of Chinese American culture and the dynamic struggle for civil rights.
As I read the story to my daughter, she didn’t understand why a Chinese girl like her would not be allowed to go to school. It gave me the opportunity to have a kind teaching moment with her, explaining how some people struggle to see how God made each of us different but still beautiful.
The story of Mamie Tape champions the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, reflecting a deep respect for all people, especially children, as valued in the eyes of our Creator. This book is a powerful testimony of the ongoing quest for equality and the importance of advocating for the rights and respect that comes with being made in God’s image.
I received a media copy of Mamie Takes a Stand and this is my honest review.