The 1964 Civil Rights Act

Faced with significant opposition to desegregation and the tragic assassination of Medgar Evers, Congress was urged to pass a comprehensive civil rights bill. Following President Kennedy's assassination in November, President Lyndon Johnson, with strong support from Roy Wilkins and Clarence Mitchell, vigorously advocated for the bill's passage, which was successfully achieved the following year. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 bans discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It's provisions outlaw discrimination in hiring, promotion, and termination based on both sex and race. The Act also forbids discriminationin public accommodations and federally funded programs, while enhancing the enforcement of voting rights and the desegregation of schools. This series explores the resilience, innovation, and lasting contributions of African Americans, serving as a rich educational resource for classrooms, academic discussions, and lifelong learners of history.