Civil right movement, women right’s movement and free speech movement
two sources link:
https://www.americanyawp.com/text/27-the-sixties/
https://www.americanyawp.com/text/26-the-affluent-society/
questions that must be included:
First, which of the social protests organizations/movements would you have supported?
Be specific in your selection of organizations/movements. For instance, if you wish to discuss the Civil Rights Movement, then identify a specific organization (ex: NAACP, CORE, SCLC, SNCC, BPP, NOI). If you wish to discuss the women’s rights movement, then identify a specific organization (ex: NOW).
-Explain why these movements needed your support.
-Explain why you think their cause was most necessary.
Second, which of the social protest movements do you think was most effective at advancing change? This part of the response is more argumentative, so you must incorporate historical evidence to prove your point.
Sample Solution
Given the tumultuous nature of The Sixties and the significant amount of social protests which occurred throughout this time period; I would have chosen to support both the Civil Rights Movement as well as the Women’s Rights Movement. Specifically, for the former, I would have been a supporter of The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). This organization was created in 1909 with goals aimed at combating discrimination against African Americans through legal action – a mission which especially resonated given much of civil rights injustices occurring during that era (Gray & Shaffer, 2019).
The NAACP has accomplished numerous feats since its inception; including litigating cases such as Brown v. Board of Education which ultimately led to desegregation within public schools across America (Eskridge Jr., 2017). In addition, they were also successful in advocating for changes to laws preventing Black Americans from voting – allowing individuals with long-held disenfranchisement access their constitutional right to participate in elections (Robinson et al., 2013). Therefore it is clear why a group such as myself who strives towards equality and equity among all people regardless of race/ethnicity would choose to join forces with this organization.
In terms of Women’s Rights – my decision to support this cause was driven by a desire to ensure that all genders received equal treatment socially, economically, politically etc… One particular movement I found particularly imperative in promoting change within these areas was The National Organization for Women (NOW) – established 1966 following President Kennedy’s Commission on Status Of Women report highlighting existing gender disparities throughout America (Griffin et al., 2018). This group worked tirelessly throughout The Sixties holding rallies/protests at various locations nationwide while also pressuring government officials pass legislation geared toward protecting women’s rights.
Overall, it is abundantly clear why an individual like myself who champions justice and fairness amongst all people regardless or race/gender would decide lend their support towards organizations such as NAACP and NOW during The Sixties. Through engaging in activities such battling racism/sexism through legal action or advocating for legislative changes meant protect women’s rights respectively – each respective organization had major impacts upon American society at large paving way greater equality moving forwards.