Civil Rights Act of 1964

Introduction United States Law banning discrimination because of color, race, national origin, religion, or sex. Primarily protects the rights of minorities. Signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964.

Introduction We believe that all men are created equal—yet many are denied equal treatment. We believe that all men have certain inalienable rights. We believe that all men are entitled to the blessings of liberty—yet millions are deprived of those blessings, not because of their own failures, but because of the color of their skins…. But it cannot continue. Our Constitution, the foundation of our Republic, forbids it. The principles of our freedom forbid it. And the law I sign tonight forbids it. (Lindon B. Johnson)

Key Features Title I – barred unequal application of voter registration requirements. Title II – Outlawed discrimination in all public accommodations engaged in interstate commerce (hotels, restaurants, theaters). Title III – Encouraged desegregation of public facilities; authorized attorney general to file suits to force desegregation.

Key Features Title IV – Authorized withdrawal of federal funds from public school programs which practiced discrimination. Title VI – Outlawed discrimination under any program receiving Federal Financial Assistance. Title VII – Established equal employment opportunity in businesses with 15 or more employees. It outlawed discrimination in the workplace on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, and national origin.

Title VII Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (1964) was designed to prevent discrimination in the workplace on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, and national origin. It is enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).