- History.com Editors. 2022. “President Johnson signs Civil Rights Act.” History, A&E Television Networks, https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/johnson-signs-civil-rights-act.
This historical account provides a comprehensive overview of the events leading to the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, offering crucial insights into that period’s legislative and societal context. It details the significant milestones in the African American civil rights movement, such as the Brown v. Board of Education case and key events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, showcasing the grassroots efforts and non-violent demonstrations that mobilized public support for civil rights.
The article sheds light on the political climate, highlighting President John F. Kennedy’s commitment to civil rights reform and how his successor, Lyndon B. Johnson, continued this agenda after Kennedy’s assassination. It outlines the challenges faced during the legislative process, underscoring the House’s opposition and the Senate’s contentious debates, providing a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in passing the Civil Rights Act.
This source emphasizes the significance of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, describing its impact on racial equality by prohibiting discrimination in employment and education and dismantling segregation in public spaces. It also highlights the Act’s role as a catalyst for subsequent legislation, including the Voting Rights Act 1965, illustrating its enduring influence on civil rights activism.
- Library of Congress, n.d. “The Civil Rights Act of 1964: A long struggle for freedom radio coverage of president’s Johnson’s remarks upon signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964: The complete speech.” https://www.loc.gov/exhibits/civil-rights-act/multimedia/johnson-signing-remarks.html#:~:text=In%20it%20the%20president%20cited,all%20aspects%20of%20American%20life.
This source highlights the pivotal moment in American history when President Lyndon B. Johnson delivered a compelling speech on the eve of signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Through strong rhetoric and historical references, Johnson emphasized the enduring struggle for racial equality, drawing upon the foundational principles of the Declaration of Independence. The speech clarifies the purpose and intent of the Civil Rights Act, emphasizing its mission to eliminate racial discrimination and ensure equal rights for all citizens. Johnson’s address, emphasizing bipartisan support and moral imperatives, provides a vivid insight into the political and social climate of the Civil Rights Movement, making it an essential resource for understanding the profound societal changes underway in the United States during that time.
- Roper Center for Public Opinion Research, n.d. “Public opinion on civil rights: Reflections on the Civil Rights Act of 1964.” months%20 leading%20up,voicing%20uncertainty%20about%20the%20bill.
This source provides a detailed analysis of the impact of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on American society, both historically and in contemporary times. It traces the evolution of public opinion surrounding race relations and civil rights issues, offering a comprehensive overview of the societal shifts and changing attitudes since the Act’s passage. The article highlights the historical context, chronicling the toxic racial atmosphere of the 1960s and the significant societal challenges faced during the Civil Rights Movement. It outlines the skepticism and opposition the movement encountered, showcasing the deeply rooted racial prejudices prevalent in American society. The article mentions how, despite some support, nearly a third of the population opposed the bill. Even after its passage, support only slightly surpassed 50% during the implementation phase, with almost one-fifth of Americans expressing uncertainty about the legislation. Additionally, the source delves into the post-1964 era, documenting the gradual but persistent improvement in race relations. It emphasizes the impact of the Civil Rights Act by citing various polls and surveys conducted over the years, revealing a positive trend in public perception.
- National Archives. “Civil Rights Act (1964) | National Archives.” National Archives |, 8 February 2022, Accessed 11 October 2023.
https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/civil-rights-act#:~:text=Despite%20Kennedy’s%20assassination%20in%20November,theaters%2C%20restaurants%2C%20and%20hotels.
This article from the National Archives gives an overview of the presented document. This article or source summarizes the paper and tells you the report it is and what the significance of this document is. This source also provides some background on the Civil Rights Act of 1964, including a timeline of its passage. It also provides a link to the full text of the document. The article also briefly explains the Act’s significance and how it shaped civil rights in the United States. The report concludes with a summary of the critical points of the paper.
Here is a quote from the article, “In the Senate, Southern Democratic opponents attempted to talk the bill to death in a filibuster. In early 1964, House supporters overcame the Rules Committee obstacle by threatening to send the invoice to the floor without approval.” (National Archives) This quote effectively summarizes the report’s key points and helps the reader understand the importance of the paper. It also illustrates the tactics used by opponents of the bill to prevent its passage.
- Bowen, Mae. “This Day in History: President Lyndon B. Johnson Signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964.” Obama White House, 2 July 2015, Accessed 12 October 2023.
https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/blog/2015/07/02/day-history-president-lyndon-b-johnson-signed-civil-rights-act-1964
This article from the White House of President Obama talks about how the signing of the act was significant and that the words used in the document were powerful and bold. The show was a historic moment and a powerful testament to the importance of civil rights. It was a significant step forward in the fight for justice and equality. This article also shows how the language in the document was used and what quotes or phrases stood out in the act. The language used in the front is a powerful reminder of how far we have come and still have to go. It also reminds us of the importance of speaking up and using our voices to fight for what is right.
For example, there is a quote that the article mentions that says, “My fellow citizens, we have come now to a time of testing. We must not fail. Let us close the springs of racial poison. Let us pray for wise and understanding hearts. Let us lay aside irrelevant differences and make our nation whole.” This quote from President Johson says that we need to close the gaps of racial divides. We must use this quote as a reminder of our power to create positive change and improve the world. We must also remember to use our voices to speak up and take action to make a better future.
- Onion, Amanda. President Johnson signs Civil Rights Act | July 2, 1964, | HISTORY, 24 November 2009, Accessed 13 October 2023.
https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/johnson-signs-civil-rights-act
This article is from history.com and describes why this act was passed in this way of year, like why the bill was passed with great support. The report also talks about significant events like court case studies that led to this historic event of signing in another account that had new programs and laws that would help people of color. The act provided legal protection for African Americans and opened the door for the civil rights movement. It also helped to end segregation and create equal opportunities for all.
For example, the article says, “In the landmark 1954 case Brown v. Board of Education, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that racial segregation in schools was unconstitutional. The 10 years that followed saw great strides for the African American civil rights movement, as non-violent demonstrations won thousands of supporters for the cause.” This quote from the article gives an example of a famous historic court case that led them to make this bill. The court case was that of Brown v. Board of Education, which ruled that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. This ruling was a significant milestone in the African-American civil rights movement and paved the way for other reforms.
- Legal Highlight: The Civil Rights Act of 1964. (n.d.). U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved October 14, 2023, from https://www.dol.gov/agencies/oasam/civil-rights-center/statutes/civil-rights-act-of-1964
This source presents an in-depth analysis of the legal framework surrounding the landmark Civil Rights Act, which was signed into law in 1964. The Act was pivotal in establishing equal rights and protections for all Americans, particularly in dismantling the discriminatory “Jim Crow” laws that had long marginalized African Americans. As such, it is widely considered one of the most significant legal achievements in the country’s history. The Civil Rights Act ensured equal opportunities for all citizens in various areas, such as education, employment, public accommodation, and voting. It prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Act’s provisions were instrumental in bringing about significant social and political changes in the United States. One of the most crucial changes brought about by the Civil Rights Act was the establishment of the US Commission on Civil Rights, which was tasked with investigating and reporting on discrimination in the country. The Act also authorized federal officials to file lawsuits in discrimination cases, further strengthening its enforcement provisions. The Civil Rights Act played a key role in the struggle for social justice, promoting a more just and inclusive society. Its impact reverberates today, as it remains a significant milestone in the fight for civil rights. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to protect and uphold the basic human rights of all individuals, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
- History.com Editors, H.c. E. (2010, January 4). Civil Rights Act of 1964. Civil Rights Act of 1964 – Definition, Summary & Significance. Retrieved October 14, 2023, from https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/civil-rights-act#lead-up-to-the-civil-rights-act
This source shed light on the intricacies of the Civil Rights Act of 1964’s passage. This monumental historical moment was only made possible by the tireless efforts of many who fought steadfastly against discrimination and prejudice. President John F. Kennedy played a pivotal role in launching the movement, introducing the bill to Congress in 1963. Despite initial support, southern members of Congress staunchly opposed it, determined to uphold a system of segregation and discrimination.After President Kennedy’s tragic assassination, his successor, Lyndon B. Johnson, took the reins and continued the fight for the bill’s passage. Johnson worked tirelessly, garnering support from both sides of the aisle to ensure its success. On July 2, 1964, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law, marking a crucial milestone in the fight for civil rights. The act outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in public places, employment, and education. This groundbreaking legislation served as a beacon of hope for marginalized communities who had long been oppressed and mistreated. It paved the way for other significant civil rights laws, such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which further protected the rights of African Americans and other minorities. Despite previous constitutional amendments that abolished slavery and granted citizenship and voting rights to African Americans, discrimination and segregation persisted, making it challenging for them to exercise their rights fully. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 aimed to change that, ushering in a new era of equality and justice for all.
- Wallenfeldt, J. (2023, September 30). Civil Rights Act | Summary, Facts, President, & History. Britannica. Retrieved October 14, 2023, from
https://www.britannica.com/event/Civil-Rights-Act-United-States-1964
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a landmark piece of legislation that has undeniably shaped the course of civil rights in the United States. It is widely regarded as one of the most significant laws in the country’s history, having played a pivotal role in ensuring that all individuals are treated with the utmost respect and dignity, regardless of race, religion, or sex. Over the years, the Act has proven a powerful tool in preventing discrimination across various sectors, including employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. It has given people of color, women, and religious minorities the legal backing they need to fight against discrimination and harassment, allowing them to assert their rights and seek justice when necessary. In addition, the Civil Rights Act has also been a crucial instrument in the ongoing fight against discrimination faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community. The law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, ensuring that all individuals can live and work with dignity and respect, free from the fear of harassment or mistreatment. Furthermore, the law has given rise to Title II, which specifically prohibits discrimination by trade unions, schools, or employers involved in interstate commerce or doing business with the federal government. This has had far-reaching implications, as it has helped to level the playing field and promote greater equality in the workplace and beyond. Overall, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 remains a cornerstone of American civil rights law, offering protection and support to those who have been historically marginalized and oppressed. It strengthened the legal framework against discrimination and protected all individuals. In short, the Civil Rights Act is a powerful and essential tool in the ongoing struggle for social justice and equal rights in the United States. It stands as a testament to the power of the legal system to effect positive change in society and a reminder of the need to remain vigilant against discrimination in all its forms.
Use the above information to complete the following:
Now that you have completed an outline of the important information for the newscast you will be showing to the class, you are ready to make a draft of this newscast video. This does not need to be recorded or have a perfect script yet, but the reader should be able to understand what each group member is going to cover in the video, how the video will be structured/organized, and what sources will be supporting your points. In short, describe what the content of the video will be as though you were trying to explain the final product to someone who wouldn’t be able to see it. You should be able to use this draft as a resource when filming/producing the final video. Make sure the drafts information is supported by each source above, using proper citation format.
