American society had the opportunity to reconsider its beliefs and practice and accept progressive ideas of tolerance and diversity during the civil rights period. American culture was forced to end racism, discrimination against women, and discrimination against racial groups by the civil rights movement. The Era gave the opportunity for the community of the Declaration of Independence to review and implement its fundamental ideals. They stated that everyone is born equal, and all have the inherent right to live in happiness and liberty. Chapter 29 covers the important topic of civil rights and how the legal system can be used to combat sexual discrimination. Courts have repeatedly questioned long-held conservative views against LGBTQ+ Americans in America, which allowed their harassment and discrimination. The Supreme Court’s historic LGBT rights decision provided enough protection for vulnerable members of society against being deceived. The United States has strengthened its commitment to diversity through the understanding of sexual and racial protection as well as dynamic court judgements.
The United States has had racism since the 18th Century. The practice has been part of American culture despite efforts by the government and some citizens to end it. Through the 18th century, blacks were forced to work and suffered various horrendous conditions, including lynching. Racism persists when a police officer shoots unarmed innocent people because they are of a different skin colour. Nielsen, 2019, argues that racism is perpetuated and worsened by the continued harsh treatment of people based on their skin colour. Individuals are taught to judge, degrade and exploit other people based on skin colour. This makes it difficult for them to see the world from a different perspective. People who are a part of racist acts will not be offended by exploitation, harassment, discrimination, and other forms of racism. Their acts bring them joy, as they see the suffering of others from other races. Blacks were subject to continuous persecution from the majority and affluent communities.
The chapter 29 focuses on the American Civil War’s role in ending slavery. This was the main means through which African-Americans were made to feel dehumanized during the 19th century. Abolition of slavery, and the birth of the civil right movement were two of many signs that the country is moving towards equality and diversity. Booker T. Washington, WEB du Bois and civil rights activists, such as Martin Luther King, were committed to reminding Americans that the foundational principles of our nation, that all persons are created equal, were among those who fought for their freedom. They were committed to eliminating institutionalized racism in institutions, such as businesses and law enforcement. Feeley (2017) says that institutionalization is when certain behaviors are standardized. The United States has a history of racial inequalities and prejudice dating back over 400 years. Blacks were mistreated as slaves during the 18th century. They were denied the right to vote in 19th century. In the 21st Century, they are subject to biased judicial system that results in higher rates of imprisonment than the rest of the population.