1964 Civil Rights Act
LegislationAbout
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a landmark U.S. legislation that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin in various sectors. It was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964, following a prolonged debate in Congress. The act comprises eleven titles, each addressing different areas of discrimination. Title I ensures equal voting rights by prohibiting biased voter registration requirements. Title II desegregates public accommodations like hotels and restaurants, while Title IV mandates the desegregation of public schools. The act also established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) under Title VII to enforce employment discrimination bans. It prohibited discrimination in federally assisted programs under Title VI and expanded the Civil Rights Commission's powers. The legislation was a response to systemic racism and segregation prevalent in the U.S. at the time. It paved the way for subsequent civil rights laws, including the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Civil Rights Act of 1968. The act's impact has been significant, shaping U.S. civil rights law and influencing social equality efforts nationwide.
