Civil Rights Act of 1964

Definition

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is landmark legislation in the United States that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

Analogy

Consider this act like an official rulebook at school which clearly states that no one can be excluded from any activity based on their personal characteristics such as skin color or gender.

Related terms

Segregation: The enforced separation of different racial groups in a country or community. Like having separate water fountains for boys and girls at school.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): A federal agency that administers and enforces civil rights laws against workplace discrimination. It's like a referee in a game ensuring fair play.

Voting Rights Act of 1965: This is a landmark piece of federal legislation in the United States that prohibits racial discrimination in voting, similar to making sure everyone gets an equal chance to participate in class elections.