Thus, bringing to light other issues of injustice that was occurring around the country at the time. In an effort to change, the United States passed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which is considered to be, “…the most far-reaching bill on civil rights in modern times, banned discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, or national origin.” (Bardes, 98). As a result, this act presented new opportunities for millions of African-Americans and other minorities who were being mistreated. Moreover, the bill acted as a gateway for many African-Americans at the time to be able to participate in the country’s political without fear of being discriminated against. In which, eventually, led to a more inclusive political landscape that we see today. The effects of the Civil Rights movement, specifically in regards to African-Americans, led to many changes our political system and as a result, the 44th President of the United States was an African-American, Barack …show more content…
The movements gave a sense of purpose for individuals in this country which is described in the article, What Does It Mean to Be an American Citizen? in which it states, “…we are responsible for tending to our own democracy, making it work for all and transmitting it to our children better than we inherited it.” (Hamilton, Web). Thus, the movement acknowledged the rights and responsibilities a citizen has in this nation and what it represents. The Civil Rights contributed to the evolution of the duties a citizen has because it gave a sense that we must protect the rights we have and what we stand for. Through the legislation passed by Congress many citizens were capable of voicing their opinion and participate in the political process by either voting or running for a particular office. Even till this day, the LGBTQ community are still fighting for their rights. In American Government and Politics Today, it states, “To a great extent, lesbian and gay groups have succeeded in changing public opinion – and state and local laws that pertain to their status and rights. Nevertheless, they continue to struggle against age-old biases against homosexuality, often rooted in deeply held religious beliefs…” As a result, the LGBTQ community has since been a group marginalized for who they are in which contradicts what the nations core values