Is the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Followed Today?
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is one of the most significant pieces of legislation in American history, as it aimed to dismantle the systemic racism and discrimination that had been prevalent in the country for centuries. Now, more than half a century later, the question arises: Is the Civil Rights Act of 1964 followed today? This article delves into the current state of civil rights in the United States and examines the extent to which the principles of the 1964 Act are still being upheld.
Understanding the Civil Rights Act of 1964
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964. It was a landmark piece of legislation that prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Act included several key provisions, such as:
1. The prohibition of discrimination in employment: Title VII of the Act made it illegal for employers to refuse to hire, discharge, or otherwise discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
2. The elimination of segregation in public accommodations: Title II of the Act required businesses that served the general public to be desegregated, effectively ending the practice of “separate but equal” facilities.
3. The protection of voting rights: Title I of the Act aimed to eliminate discriminatory voting practices, such as literacy tests and poll taxes, that had been used to prevent African Americans from exercising their right to vote.
Current State of Civil Rights in the United States
While the Civil Rights Act of 1964 has had a profound impact on American society, it is essential to acknowledge that the fight for equality is ongoing. Here are some aspects of the current civil rights landscape in the United States:
1. Employment discrimination: Although Title VII has been in place for over 50 years, discrimination in the workplace still persists. Many African Americans, Latinos, and other minority groups continue to face disparities in hiring, promotion, and pay.
2. Public accommodations: While segregation in public facilities has been largely eliminated, there are still instances of discrimination in housing, education, and other areas. The Supreme Court’s decision in the 2018 case of Rucho v. Common Cause, which struck down a North Carolina law requiring voters to present photo identification, highlights the ongoing debate over voting rights and access to the polls.
3. Voting rights: The Voting Rights Act of 1965, which was an extension of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, aimed to protect the voting rights of African Americans. However, recent Supreme Court decisions have weakened the effectiveness of this Act, leading to concerns about voter suppression and discriminatory voting practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Civil Rights Act of 1964 has laid the foundation for a more equitable society, it is clear that the fight for civil rights is far from over. The principles of the Act are still relevant today, and there is a continued need for efforts to ensure that all Americans have equal rights and opportunities. As we reflect on the progress made since 1964, it is crucial to recognize the challenges that remain and work together to address them. Only then can we truly say that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is being followed today.
