Civil Rights Act of 1964

Definition

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is landmark legislation in the United States that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It was a crucial step in the ongoing struggle for civil rights and aimed to eliminate segregation in public places and employment discrimination, reflecting a significant shift in the relationship between business and society during the civil rights movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964, following intense advocacy from civil rights activists.
2. The Act's passage marked a pivotal moment in American history, as it outlawed segregation in schools, public accommodations, and employment.
3. Title VII of the Act led to the establishment of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which plays a key role in addressing workplace discrimination cases.
4. The Civil Rights Act laid the groundwork for subsequent legislation aimed at promoting equality and combating discrimination, including later amendments and acts.
5. The Act faced significant opposition from various political groups and individuals, reflecting the deep societal divisions over civil rights issues at the time.

Review Questions

• How did the Civil Rights Act of 1964 impact businesses in terms of their hiring practices?
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 significantly changed hiring practices across businesses by prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Employers were required to evaluate job applicants based solely on their qualifications rather than their demographic characteristics. This not only increased diversity in the workplace but also encouraged companies to adopt fair employment policies and practices to avoid legal repercussions.
• Discuss the relationship between the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the emergence of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) as a vital component in enforcing federal laws against employment discrimination. The EEOC investigates complaints from individuals who believe they have faced discrimination in the workplace and has the authority to file lawsuits on behalf of affected employees. This relationship highlights how legislative measures can lead to institutional changes that promote equality and protect workers' rights.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on American society and its ongoing influence on business practices today.
  • The long-term effects of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 are profound, as it fundamentally reshaped American society by advancing civil rights and setting legal precedents for equality. The Act's principles continue to influence contemporary business practices through ongoing policies around diversity and inclusion. Many companies now actively engage in affirmative action programs and training initiatives to foster an equitable workplace environment. Additionally, the legacy of this legislation serves as a foundation for subsequent laws aimed at promoting social justice and combating discrimination across various sectors.

Related terms

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): A federal agency created by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to enforce laws against workplace discrimination and ensure equal opportunities in employment.

Title VII: A section of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that specifically addresses employment discrimination and prohibits employers from discriminating based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Affirmative Action:

Policies and practices aimed at increasing opportunities for historically marginalized groups in education and employment, often as a response to past discrimination.