Last week marked the 61st anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1965 (“CRA”). The CRA was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 2024. This landmark civil rights legislation was passed as a result of coordinated organizing, litigation, protests, and other social movement strategies. 

The CRA prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in public places and employment. The CRA also declared the integration of public accommodations and schools. Here are three resources you can consult to learn about more the CRA:

1. Legal Defense Fund, 2024 Statement on the CRA: https://www.naacpldf.org/press-release/ldf-reflects-on-60th-anniversary-of-the-civil-rights-act-of-1964/ 
2. National Archives, Milestone Documents: https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/civil-rights-act 
3. American Bar Association, 2024 Webinar Series on Preserving the Integrity of the CRA: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/diversity/resources/civil-rights-act-1964-program/ 

Today, the protections provided by the CRA are under attack as much as ever. We can commemorate the anniversary of the CRA by defending the principles it championed and fighting for the further expansion of our civil rights.