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Civil Rights Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

Civil Rights Quotes are powerful statements that advocate for equality, justice, and freedom for all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, or background. These quotes often highlight the struggles faced by marginalized communities and serve as a reminder of the importance of standing up against discrimination and prejudice.

Civil Rights Quotes inspire individuals to challenge the status quo, promote unity, and fight for the rights and dignity of every human being. They serve as a testament to the ongoing fight for civil rights and the belief that every person deserves equal opportunities and fair treatment.


Below are various civil rights quotes with their meanings/explanations;

Civil Rights Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

“The first principle of non-violent action is that of non-cooperation with everything humiliating.”- Cesar Chavez

Non-violent action, also known as satyagraha or ahimsa, is a principle of nonviolent resistance that urges individuals to refuse to cooperate with anything that would be humiliating or oppressive. Inherent in this principle is the conviction that violence begets violence and oppression only perpetuates itself. Thus, by refusing to cooperate with any form of mistreatment or humiliation, individuals hope to bring about change through peaceful means.


“I like the idea of amending the 1964 Civil Rights Act to include a ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation. It would be simple. It would be straightforward.” – Donald Trump

Discrimination based on sexual orientation is already outlawed in 29 states. It's time for the federal government to catch up. A simple amendment to the 1964 Civil Rights Act could do the trick. It would be straightforward to add a ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation to the law. The benefits are clear: LGBTQ people would no longer face discrimination in the workplace, in public spaces, and in housing. This would make life better for everyone involved.


“Sometimes, I am also identified as a civil rights leader or a human rights activist. I would also like to be thought of as a complex, three-dimensional, flesh-and-blood human being with a rich storehouse of experiences, much like everyone else, yet unique in my own way, much like everyone else.” – Coretta Scott King

While this statement is widely known, what does it actually mean? In many ways, King was both a civil and human rights leader. As a civil rights leader, he helped to end segregation and discrimination in the United States. As a human rights leader, he fought for the rights of all people - regardless of race or sex.


“Equality is not in regarding different things similarly, equality is in regarding different things differently.” – Tom Robbins

Different things should be treated differently in order to achieve equality. This is why we should regard different things differently when it comes to human rights. This is also why we should not be equal when it comes to things like intelligence or race. We must treat everyone the same in order to have true equality.


“The most significant civil rights problem is voting. Each citizen’s right to vote is fundamental to all the other rights of citizenship and the Civil Rights Acts of 1957 and 1960 make it the responsibility of the Department of Justice to protect that right.” – Robert Kennedy

The right to vote is one of the most fundamental civil rights in the United States. Every citizen has the right to vote, regardless of race, sex, or age. The 1957 and 1960 Civil Rights Acts make it an important part of American history and culture. Without the right to vote, citizens cannot hold the government accountable for their actions. Voting is essential to democracy and allows all people to have a say in how their country is run.


“There are those who say to you – we are rushing this issue of civil rights. I say we are 172 years late.” – Hubert H. Humphrey

The Civil Rights Movement was not only a time of great change and progress, but also a time when many people were afraid to speak out. However, the bravery of those who fought for civil rights has never been forgotten. The movement has inspired generations to come, and continues to do so today.


“The South resented giving the Afro-American his freedom, the ballot box and the Civil Rights Law.” – Ida B. Wells

The south felt that these were threats to their way of life. The south fought against these legislations tooth and nail and in some cases resorted to violence. However, the south eventually realized that these bills were necessary for the continued progress of America as a whole.


“Until we get equality in education, we won’t have an equal society.” – Sonia Sotomayor

Until we get equality in education, we won't have an equal society. That is the message that many people are trying to get across in their communities. The idea of equality is something that people are passionate about and want to see happen as soon as possible. There are many different ways that people are trying to achieve this goal, and it may take some time before we see real change.


“The time is always right to do what is right.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Injustice abounds in the world, and it's time for the people to stand up and do something about it. It's time for us to put our morals first and do what is right, even if it means standing up to those in power. We have the power to make a change, and we should use it.

Civil Rights Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

“The reason why ‘Black Lives Matter’ is a chant is because a lot of people feel, myself included, that sometimes they don’t matter.” – Benjamin Watson

Black Lives Matter is a mantra that has been circulating for years now. The reason why it is a chant is because a lot of people feel, myself included, that sometimes they don't matter. This slogan is meant to bring attention to the fact that black lives do matter and that we need to start paying more attention to them. We need to be vocal about these issues and make sure that our voices are heard.


“No Republican questions or disputes civil rights. I have never wavered in my support for civil rights or the civil rights act.” – Rand Paul

The Republican party has a long history of support for civil rights. However, there are no current Republican questions or disputes about civil rights. This is in stark contrast to the Democratic party, which has had many controversial debates and questions about civil rights.


“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.”-Desmond Tutu

Humanity is a bond that we share. We are all humans and together, we are able to be human. Our humanity is bound up in each other and without each other, we would not be able to be whole. We need each other and together, we can make a difference in the world.


“I maintain that every civil rights bill in this country was passed for white people, not for black people.” – Stokely Carmichael

Every civil rights bill in this country was passed for white people, not for black people. This is something that many people may not be aware of, and it is something that needs to be addressed. The civil rights movement was a time when black people fought for their right to be treated equally and with respect. However, many of the rights that they fought for were not actually granted to them.


“Every American citizen must have an equal right to vote. There is no reason which can excuse the denial of that right. There is no duty which weighs more heavily on us than the duty we have to ensure that right. … It is wrong-deadly wrong-to deny any of your fellow Americans the right to vote in this country. There is no issue of states rights or national rights. There is only the struggle for human rights.” – Lyndon B. Johnson

In the United States of America, every citizen has the right to vote. This right is enshrined in the Constitution and is a fundamental part of our democracy. It is important that every American has an equal right to vote, because there is no reason which can justify the denial of this right. There is no duty which weighs more heavily on us than the duty we have to ensure that all Americans have an equal voice in our democracy.


“To me, I know that if we could pass the Civil Rights Act of ’64 over 50 years ago, then we can pass Justice for All Civil Rights Act. We can pass Medicare for All.” – Rashida Tlaib

In the early 1960s, there was a movement afoot to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This bill would have outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in all public places. Although it was passed over 50 years ago, there is still work to be done in order to ensure that all citizens have the same rights and opportunities. One way to achieve this goal is through Medicare for All, which would provide healthcare coverage for all Americans.


“The most ironic outcome of the black Civil Rights movement has been the creation of a new black middle class which is increasingly separate from the black underclass.” – Henry Louis Gates

The irony of the black Civil Rights movement is that while it has led to a new black middle class, it also created an underclass that is increasingly separate from the middle class. This new black middle class has benefited greatly from affirmative action and government support, but they have largely ignored the plight of the underclass.


“My father wanted me to be a dentist like him, or any doctor. There was this attitude of, ‘The civil rights movement was not about you being an artist.’” – Amy Sherald

 This statement is often heard from people who have never had to fight for their rights. It is something that is often taken for granted, and for many people, it is just a part of their history. The civil rights movement was about fighting for equality, and it is something that we should all remember.

Civil Rights Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

“It is difficult to overstate the importance of the Civil Rights Act.” – Bobby Scott

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a landmark piece of legislation that outlawed discrimination in the United States based on race, color, religion, national origin, and sex. The act helped to end segregation and inequality in America and gave millions of people the opportunity to achieve equality.


“The greatest movement for social justice our country has ever known is the civil rights movement and it was totally rooted in a love ethic.” – bell hooks

The civil rights movement was one of the greatest movements for social justice our country has ever known. The movement was rooted in a love ethic and its ultimate goal was to end discrimination and segregation. The movement helped bring about many changes, including the Equal Rights Amendment and the Voting Rights Act.


“We cannot have policies that punish people for taking action. Imagine the further harm it would have caused if the federal government banned civil rights leaders from boycotting buses in Montgomery, Alabama, or banning divestment from Apartheid South Africa.” – Rashida Tlaib

 The policy of punishing individuals who took part in the boycott would have had far-reaching consequences for the freedom and equality of African Americans. If the federal government had banned civil rights leaders from boycotting buses, it would have prevented them from effectively organizing and rallying support against segregation. The policy would also have hindered their ability to advocate for change.


“The liberals in the House strongly resemble liberals I have known through the last two decades in the civil rights conflict. When it comes time to show on which side they will be counted, they excuse themselves.” – Shirley Chisholm

He is a civil rights icon and has been fighting for justice his whole life. He knows what it is like to be on the wrong side of the law and to have people discriminated against because of who they are.


“When and under what conditions is the black man to have a free ballot? When is he in fact to have those full civil rights which have so long been his in law?” – Benjamin Harrison

African Americans have fought for their civil rights for centuries, but they have yet to be fully recognized by the United States government. This is because the black man is not considered a full citizen, legally speaking. This means that he does not have all of the same rights as other citizens. In order to gain full civil rights, the black man must first be granted citizenship. Once he has full citizenship, he can then enjoy all of the rights and privileges that come with it.


“If you avoid the civil rights, misusing your power in any shape, the outcome of that will indeed be a tragedy of the entire society and the deplorable crime.” – Ehsan Sehgal

Civil rights are a cherished part of American society. They protect the rights of minority groups, help to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed, and are essential to a fair and just society. If you misuse your power in any way, however, civil rights can be abused and result in a tragedy for the entire society. For example, if someone does not have the same civil rights as others, they may not be able to get a job or access education.


“Perot’s father did not know what civil rights were: this was how you treated other human beings.” – Ken Follett

The father of Ross Perot did not know what civil rights were when he first started working in the south. He was taught that other human beings were just animals and that they should be treated accordingly. This is how Mr. Perot grew up and it is also how he treated other people throughout his life.


“School choice is the civil rights issue of the 21st century.” – Ted Cruz

Parents have a fundamental right to choose the best school for their children. Unfortunately, many parents do not have this right because they are limited by geography or income. School choice programs offer parents the opportunity to send their children to the school that is best for them. These programs have been successful in increasing access to quality education for disadvantaged students.


“It is impossible to struggle for civil rights, equal rights for blacks, without including whites. Because equal rights, fair play, and justice, are all like the air: we all have it, or none of us has it. That is the truth of it.” – Maya Angelou

Equal rights, fair play, and justice, are all like the air we all have it, or none of us has it. These concepts are not exclusive to any one group of people. They are the foundation for civil society and the cornerstone of democracy. Struggling for civil rights, and equal rights for blacks, without including whites is impossible. Without including all individuals in the discussion, there is a risk that rights will be eroded and equality will be denied.


“You’re not supposed to be so blind with patriotism that you can’t face reality. Wrong is wrong, no matter who says it.”- Malcolm X

Patriotism can be a powerful emotion, motivating people to do their best and support their country. However, Too often, patriotism leads to blindness to the realities of the world. When people are blinded by patriotism, they may refuse to recognize problems in their country or in the world. This can lead to dangerous consequences, as seen in countries that fall into authoritarianism or wars.


“Equality and separation cannot exist in the same space.” – Jason Mraz

Equality and separation cannot exist in the same space. They are two concepts that go against each other, and they are often at odds with one another. Equality means that everyone is treated the same, regardless of their background or station in life. Separation means that different people are kept separate from one another so that they do not interfere with each other's rights and freedoms.


“I favor the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and it must be enforced at gunpoint if necessary.” – Ronald Reagan

The act prohibited discrimination in public places, such as restaurants, hotels, and theaters. It also made it illegal to refuse service to a person based on their race or national origin.


“If you have a dog, I must have a dog. If you have a rifle, I must have a rifle. If you have a club, I must have a club. This is equality.” – Malcolm X

This quote is often used to advocate for equality and to show that people should not be judged based on their possessions.


“The humanity of all Americans is diminished when any group is denied rights granted to others.” – Julian Bond

The humanity of all Americans is diminished when any group is denied rights granted to others. This is especially true when it comes to marginalized groups that have faced discrimination and oppression throughout history. This is why it is important for the United States to uphold the principles of equality and justice, which are enshrined in the Constitution.


“We will never have true civilization until we have learned to recognize the rights of others.” – Will Rogers

Humanity has yet to realize its full potential as a civil society until it learns to respect and understand the rights of others. Considering the number of abuses perpetrated against individuals due to ignorance or intolerance, it is clear that much work still needs to be done in this area. However, with continued education and awareness, humans can eventually reach a state of true civilization.


“These movements aren’t about anger. We’re not angrily saying ‘Black Lives Matter.’ We’re declaring it. It’s a declaration. We want to be seen as robust, full human beings that have anger and joy. We want to be able to just freely have that joy. Like everybody else does.” – Tarana Burke

Black Lives Matter activists across the United States are organizing to fight for social and economic justice. The movement is not about anger; it's about declaring our humanity. Black Lives Matter activists want to be seen as robust, full human beings that have anger and joy. The movement is also about advocating for change and holding people accountable.


“Black immigrants and refugees have just as much at stake in the fight to make Black Lives Matter as African Americans do.” – Opal Tometi

They are also disproportionately targeted by police, incarcerated, and deprived of basic human rights. The Movement for Black Lives is committed to ending all forms of racism and ensuring that all people have access to justice and equity. We believe that building a coalition of Black immigrants and refugees, along with our allied movements, will be key to achieving this goal.


“I think that the thing that we learned back in the day of the civil rights movement is that you do have to keep on keeping on.” – Charlayne Hunter-Gault

 The most important lesson learned from the civil rights movement is that you do have to keep on keeping on if you want to achieve anything. Many people give up when faced with a challenge, but those who keep fighting eventually triumph.


“I think part of what we’re seeing in the rise of white nationalism is their response to Black Lives Matter, is their response to an ever-increasing fight for equal rights, for civil rights, and for human rights.” – Patrisse Cullors

Recently, white nationalists and supremacists have been making a comeback in the United States. The movement has been gaining popularity due to their response to movements like Black Lives Matter. This resurgence of white nationalism has caused many people to worry about what this will mean for the future of America and its people.


“The Klan had used fear, intimidation and murder to brutally oppress over African-Americans who sought justice and equality and it sought to respond to the young workers of the civil rights movement in Mississippi in the same way.” – Charles B. Rangel

When the Ku Klux Klan emerged in the late 1800s, it was a powerful force in American society. The KKK used fear, intimidation and murder to brutally oppress over African-Americans who sought justice and equality. Over time, the Klan responded to the young workers of the civil rights movement by staging rallies and cross burnings. However, despite their efforts, the Klan ultimately failed in their goal of preventing civil rights progress.


“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” -Shirley Chisholm

If you want to be an effective advocate for your cause, you need to be comfortable sitting at the table. That's why, when it comes to policy making, it's important to have a seat at the table. This means being included in discussions and debates about issues that affect you. And if you don't have a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.


“You could not be in the civil rights movement without having an appreciation for everybody’s rights.” – Julian Bond

The civil rights movement was a time of great change for the African-American community. It was a time when people fought for their right to be treated equally, no matter what their race or ethnicity was. The civil rights movement was not only about fighting for racial equality, but also for the right to be free from discrimination and harassment. This included everything from the right to vote to the right to be treated with respect in public.


“I think people instinctively know that their job is to give service and that they are part of a community. It had a great impact on me when my father walked the picket lines and I walked with him during the civil rights movement.” – Russell Simmons

People instinctively know that their job is to give service and that they are part of a community. No matter what our occupation or social status may be, we all have an obligation to contribute to our communities in some way.


“My grandmother had been a part of the civil rights movement.” – Killer Mike

She witnessed segregation first hand and was determined to change it. She helped organize protests and marches, and she was arrested numerous times. But her spirit never faltered. She believed in love and equality, and she fought until she won. Her legacy is an inspiration to us all.


“The civil rights movement would experience many important victories, but Rosa Parks will always be remembered as its catalyst.” – Jim Costa

Rosa Parks was an African-American woman who was most recognized for her role in the civil rights movement. This movement was successful in achieving many important victories, but Parks will always be remembered as its catalyst. Her refusal to give up her bus seat to a white person is what started the boycott and eventually led to legislation ensuring civil rights for all Americans.


“The civil rights movement was based on faith. Segregation and racial discrimination were not in keeping with our faith, so we had to do something.” – John Lewis

The civil rights movement was based on faith. Segregation and racial discrimination were not in keeping with our faith, so we had to do something. We had to stand up for what we believed in and use our voice to make a difference. We didn't just sit back and accept what was happening, we took action and fought for change. The outcome of our efforts is undeniable - today, everyone has the right to be treated equally, no matter their race or background.


“Rejecting the fundamental provision of the Civil Rights Act is a rejection of the foundational promise of America that all men and women should be treated equally, a promise for which many Americans have lost their lives.” – John Yarmuth

No matter your political affiliation, there is no denying that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is one of the most important pieces of legislation in American history. The law protects everyone from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability. It's also one of the most controversial pieces of legislation in American history because it requires businesses to allow their employees to unionize and collectively bargain with their employers.


“My mom went through civil rights; my dad went through civil rights. My name was Kenya because they wanted to give me an African name.” – Kenya Barris

For many African Americans, their parents or grandparents were directly impacted by the struggles and achievements of the 1960s. As a result, many African Americans are proud to have experienced these historic events firsthand.


“The history of the past is but one long struggle upward to equality.” – Elizabeth Cady Stanton

 There have been times when people have been oppressed and marginalized, but they have always fought back and made progress. The fight for equality continues today, and it will never stop until everyone has the same rights and opportunities.


“In a lot of ways, civil rights division is the conscience of the Justice Department. You can almost measure what kind of Justice Department you have by what kind of civil rights division that you have.” – Eric Holder

The Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department is the conscience of the department. The division ensures that all Americans are treated equally under the law, no matter their race, sex, religion, or national origin. The division works to protect the rights of minorities and individuals who have been victims of discrimination.


“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

The quote, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character," was spoken by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during his famous "I Have A Dream" speech. It is an inspiring and timeless message that should be cherished by every American.


“A little less complaint and whining, and a little more dogged work and manly striving, would do us more credit than a thousand civil rights bills.” – W. E. B. Du Bois

It's time for us to move beyond the complaining and whining that has become all too common in our society. Instead, we should be more dogged in our work and strive for manly accomplishments. This is the only path to true success.


“All lives matter, including black lives, which is a value we should be striving for rather than condemning.” – Katie Pavlich

Black lives matter. Period. This is a value we should be striving for rather than condemning. The goal should not be to fix the black community, but to embrace diversity and work towards a society where all lives matter. We need to start by understanding that no one group is responsible for the problems in black communities, and we need to work together to solve these issues.


“A lot of people are quick to say that saying ‘black lives matter’ makes you anti-cop. All lives should indeed matter, but we have a systemic problem in this country in which black lives do not matter enough.” – Angie Thomas

There has been a lot of talk lately about whether or not saying "black lives matter" makes you anti-cop. Some people say that all lives should matter, but we have a systemic problem in this country in which black lives do not matter. Systemic racism exists in the United States and it is something that needs to be addressed. We need to start by acknowledging that black lives do not always matter and work to change the system that is causing this problem.


“Black Lives Matter is one iteration of a much larger struggle to fight for black people’s freedom.” – Patrisse Cullors

Black Lives Matter is one iteration of a much larger struggle to fight for black people's freedom. The movement began in response to the deaths of unarmed black men at the hands of police officers, and it has since grown into a powerful voice for change. BLM protests have taken place all over the country, and their message has resonated with many people. The group has helped to raise awareness about the issues facing black communities and has called for systemic change.


“For me, jazz will always be the soundtrack of the civil rights movement.” – Henry Rollins

As the soundtrack to the civil rights movement, jazz helped define and unite a generation of African Americans. It was an integral part of the resistance against racism and segregation, and continues to play a significant role in the way that black America thinks, feels, and behaves. Jazz will always be a symbol of freedom and democracy.


“Civil rights are more important today than they ever have been in our country. There is so much divisiveness today.” – David Harris

 It is hard to see how we can come together and work towards a common goal. But we must try. We cannot let the division continue to grow. We owe it to our children and grandchildren to work together and make sure that all Americans have the same basic rights, no matter who they are or what their backgrounds may be.


“Civil rights happened because youth got involved. The youth stood up and helped to break the pattern that their parents had accustomed to living. The next generation has to take that stand for whatever it is, socially, that they are involved in.” – Octavia Spencer

Since the 1960s, civil rights have been a hot topic for many people. Activists and youth in particular have played an important role in helping break the pattern that their parents had gotten accustomed to living. The next generation has to take that stand for whomever they believe in, and they must not allow themselves to be silenced by anyone. There is power in numbers, and when people come together to fight for what’s right, they can achieve amazing things.


“When we address the disparities facing black people, we get a lot closer to a true democracy where all lives matter.” – Alicia Garza

It is not enough to just talk about these disparities; we need to take action and make sure that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. We can start by making sure that all children are given the same opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their race or ethnicity.


“Black lives matter’ doesn’t mean that all lives do not matter, rather it is a cry for equal treatment in the greater circle of justice for all Americans.” – Wayne Messam

Black Lives Matter is a cry for equal treatment in the greater circle of justice for all Americans. The slogan was created to draw attention to the fact that black people are disproportionately killed by police officers and other forms of violence, and it has since become a rallying cry for change. BLM advocates for police reform, tighter gun laws, and racial justice in general.


“Black Lives Matter was created as a response to state violence and anti-black racism and a call to action for those who want to fight it and build a world where black lives do, in fact, matter.” – Alicia Garza

Black Lives Matter was created as a response to state violence and anti-black racism. The organization calls for an end to this violence and seeks to build a world where black lives do, in fact, matter. With the slogan "Black Lives Matter," activists aim to bring attention to the systemic racism that exists within America and across the world. They believe that all lives should be treated with respect, and that systemic change can only be achieved through collective action.


“The civil rights movement was about access to public space. We had to fight for public space.” – Jacqueline Woods

The civil rights movement was about access to public space. We had to fight for public space against those who said that people of color were not fit to be in the public eye. We had to prove that we belonged and that we were just as capable as anyone else. We fought for equal access to education, employment, housing, and public spaces.


“I had no idea that history was being made. I was just tired of giving up.” -Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks was a very determined woman. She had always been determined to do something great in her life and she finally found her opportunity when she decided to give up her bus seat to a white person. This decision changed history and made it possible for people of all races to be treated equally.


“During Black History Month, I’m reminded yet again of the ways that the struggle for civil rights is interwoven with the struggle for workers’ rights.” – Tom Perez

Despite the tremendous progress made in recent years, there is still work to be done to ensure that all Americans have access to justice and dignity, regardless of race or gender. The labor movement has always been at the forefront of fighting for social and economic justice, and we must continue to support its efforts in order to achieve equality for all.


“The only real prison is fear, and the only real freedom is freedom from fear.” – Aung San Suu Kyi

Fear is the only real prison and the only real freedom. Those who are in control of our fears are the ones who control us. We are our own worst enemies, and we continually put ourselves in situations where we feel afraid, powerless, and uncertain. But there is a better way. There is a freedom that comes from being fearless and knowing that no matter what happens, we can always find refuge within ourselves.


“Without prayer, without faith in the Almighty, the civil rights movement would have been like a bird without wings.” – John Lewis

The civil rights movement would have been like a bird without wings without the faith and prayers of the people. The African-American community relied heavily on prayer and religious ceremonies to help them through their struggles. This was evident during the marches, when the community would come together to sing hymns and pray for strength. The power of prayer was also evident during the protests themselves, as demonstrators were able to remain nonviolent thanks in part to their faith in God.


“I think as a whole America is dealing with the issue of homophobia. We have to be really honest about whether we believe in civil rights for all people or not. As Black people we need to remember the moment that we say it’s okay to disenfranchise one segment of society, we’re opening the door to move backward on ourselves.” – Kerry Washington

Overall, America is dealing with the issue of homophobia. We have to be really honest about whether we believe in civil rights for all people or not. As Black people, we need to remember the history and continue to fight for equality for all people.


“The unsung heroes of the civil rights movement were always the wives and the mothers.” – Andrew Young

Many people view the civil rights movement as a time when brave men and women fought for justice. However, it was also oftentimes the wives and mothers of the African Americans who quietly stood behind their families and helped to support them during the struggle. This was especially true during the early years of the movement when many white Americans were not supportive of African Americans seeking equality. These women often had to work outside the home, stay strong during difficult times, and raise their children in a hostile environment.


“It was very clear to me in 1965, in Mississippi, that, as a lawyer, I could get people into schools, desegregate the schools, but if they were kicked off the plantations – and if they didn’t have food, didn’t have jobs, didn’t have health care, didn’t have the means to exercise those civil rights, we were not going to have success.” – Marian Wright Edelman

The author remembers a time when it was very clear to her that as a lawyer, she could help people in Mississippi access education and be desegregated from the plantations. The author credits her law career with helping her connect with other Mississippians and make a difference in their lives. Upon reflection, the author believes that it was not only the work she did as a lawyer, but also her personal relationships with people who she helped, that truly made a difference.


“I love how music and chants were used in the Civil Rights movement to help people keep marching. How songs were both a balm and a call to action.” – Jamila Woods

The Civil Rights movement was a time of great change for the United States. The struggle for equality and justice was led by many people, but one of the most important aspects of the movement was the use of music and chants to keep the protesters moving forward. Songs were both a balm and a call to action, helping to unite people and keep them motivated. Though some songs are now considered classic pieces of American music, at the time they were used as powerful tools for social change.


“Yes, I think it’s really important to acknowledge that Dr. King, precisely at the moment of his assassination, was re-conceptualizing the civil rights movement and moving toward a sort of coalitional relationship with the trade union movement.” – Angela Davis

When Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, he was in the middle of a conceptual shift in the civil rights movement that would have powerful consequences. King had been working to move away from a purely individualistic approach to civil rights and toward a more coalition-based strategy. This change was not yet fully realized, but it was clearly moving in that direction.


“Our civil rights have no dependence on our religious opinions any more than our opinions in physics or geometry.” – Thomas Jefferson

In a time when the United States is experiencing a rise of religious nationalism, one might be led to believe that our civil rights hinge on our religious opinions. This is not the case. Civil rights are based on principles and protections that are inherent in our Constitution and do not depend on our religious beliefs. The Constitution protects all citizens from government discrimination based on race, sex, disability, etc. These protections extend to people of all religions.


“There’s no problem on the planet that can’t be solved without violence. That’s the lesson of the civil rights movement.” – Andrew Young

The civil rights movement was a time of great change and progress for the black community in America. This movement showed that there was no problem on the planet that couldn't be solved with violence. The blacks who participated in this movement showed that they weren't afraid to fight for what they believed in and that they were determined to achieve their goals. This example shows why it is important for people to stand up for what they believe in, even if it means using violence.




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