Identify two of the U.S. laws and policies that protect civil rights in the U.S. Choose TWO civil rights issues addressed in the class to go into deeper
Two U.S. laws and policies that protect civil rights in the U.S. are the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
1. The Civil Rights Act of 1964:
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is one of the most significant pieces of legislation in U.S. history aiming to protect civil rights. It addresses various civil rights issues, including racial discrimination, segregation, and employment discrimination. Specifically, Title II of the Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin in public accommodations such as hotels, restaurants, and theaters. This law ensures the equal treatment of individuals regardless of their race or ethnicity, promoting integration and combating racial discrimination in public spaces.
2. The Voting Rights Act of 1965:
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is another crucial legislation protecting civil rights by tackling racial discrimination in voting. It addresses the issue of disenfranchisement, particularly towards African Americans and other minorities. The Act prohibits racial discrimination in voting practices, such as poll taxes and literacy tests, which were historically used to prevent minority voters from exercising their right to vote. It also provided federal oversight and required certain states and jurisdictions with a history of discrimination to obtain federal approval before making any changes to their voting laws. By doing so, the Voting Rights Act aims to ensure equal access to the voting booth and safeguard the right to vote for all citizens, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
These two laws played a significant role in advancing civil rights in the United States, helping eliminate discriminatory practices and promoting equal treatment and opportunities for all individuals.