Which of the following correctly explains how the freedom of speech contributed to the success of the civil rights movement?(1 point)
Responses
The right to freedom of speech allowed the opponents of the civil rights movement to physically attack the participants in the movement.
The right to freedom of speech allowed the opponents of the civil rights movement to physically attack the participants in the movement.
The right to freedom of speech prevented law enforcement from physically harming the participants in the civil rights movement.
The right to freedom of speech prevented law enforcement from physically harming the participants in the civil rights movement.
The right to freedom of speech allowed participants to avoid punishment when they broke laws they believed to be unjust.
The right to freedom of speech allowed participants to avoid punishment when they broke laws they believed to be unjust.
The right to freedom of speech allowed those participating in the civil rights movement to challenge the ideas that supported racial discrimination.
The right to freedom of speech allowed those participating in the civil rights movement to challenge the ideas that supported racial discrimination.
The correct explanation is:
The right to freedom of speech allowed those participating in the civil rights movement to challenge the ideas that supported racial discrimination.
The correct answer is: "The right to freedom of speech allowed those participating in the civil rights movement to challenge the ideas that supported racial discrimination."
To explain how to arrive at this answer, we need to understand the significance of freedom of speech in the context of the civil rights movement. Freedom of speech is a fundamental right protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. It grants individuals the ability to express their opinions and ideas without fear of censorship or punishment from the government.
During the civil rights movement, individuals who were advocating for equal rights and an end to racial discrimination faced significant opposition. They challenged deeply ingrained societal norms and racial segregation laws, which were supported by powerful institutions and individuals. In such a climate, the freedom of speech was crucial in allowing civil rights activists to voice their dissenting views and challenge the existing status quo.
By exercising their right to freedom of speech, participants in the civil rights movement were able to openly criticize discriminatory practices, shine a light on social injustices, and raise awareness about the need for change. Their speeches, protests, and demonstrations played a significant role in mobilizing public support and rallying people to the cause.
Moreover, freedom of speech also facilitated public debate and dialogue around civil rights issues. It allowed activists to engage in discussions and persuade others to join their cause. By presenting their arguments and challenging the ideas that supported racial discrimination, civil rights activists prompted a reevaluation of societal norms and contributed to the gradual dismantling of segregation policies.
Therefore, the correct answer is that the right to freedom of speech allowed those participating in the civil rights movement to challenge the ideas that supported racial discrimination.