For the EOTO’s, they talked about important events and individuals that shaped the American Civil Rights Movement. Jake did a presentation on the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Freedom Rides, he talked about the courage and determination of activists like Rosa Parks, who became the ideal representative for challenging segregation. The refusal of Parks to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus ignited a very powerful boycott that lasted more than a year, it showed the determination to resolve racism and discrimination by the African American community.
The Freedom Rides, was taken up by thirteen activists, it had showed the commitment to taking apart the Jim Crow laws. The actions of these Freedom Riders were really brave in testing the legal boundaries of racial segregation, particularly in challenging the Boynton v. Virginia ruling. Their determination brought more attention not only to the differences African Americans faced but also helped create support for the Civil Rights Movement.
Hayes talked about the Little Rock Nine and James Meredith and the view of the intense struggles over school integration and the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. The Little Rock Nine were the first African American students to integrate the public high school in Arkansas, they faced brutal resistance but also a problem with the in state federal authority. This moment showed how deeply the racial equality was within the system and it showed the bigger national fight over civil rights.
Cam talked about the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the application that had dealt with voter discrimination. The Act was an important part to establish the federal law for states with past voting discriminations, it also showed increasing registration and participation of the depressed populations. This legislative gain was a part of the systemic obstacles that Black Americans continued to face at the polls.
Justin talked about the Civil Rights Act of 1964. From employment to public accommodations and federally funded programs, the Act was created to take apart the institutional obstacles that had long story with racial inequality. By taking down discrimination in different points of public life wether it is a black person or a white person. The Civil Rights Act laid the groundwork for a more equitable society.
Christopher talked about on the March on Washington, which drew over 250,000 participants, he emphasized the collective call for jobs and freedom. The iconic "I Have a Dream" speech by Dr. King became a very important moment in the struggle for civil rights, which were across generations and it inspired a lot of individuals to join the fight for justice.
Sean talked about the Lunch Counter Sit-Ins, which is another topic about a nonviolent protest that confronted the practice of racial segregation in public spaces. The bravery of young people being confronted with violence for wanting the right to be served at lunch counters shows the everyday battles being fought for equality within their community.
Zay talked about the Stand in the Schoolhouse Door, where Governor George Wallace blocked two Black students from entering the University of Alabama, it showed the extent to which some officials went to keep segregation going. This confrontation was a symbol for the larger struggle against institutional racism in education.
Kelsey did a presentation on the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 she talked about how it showed the high price of activism. The national grief that followed his death and the violent outbursts that broke out in cities around the country showed how deeply divided the country still was while progress was being made.
Last, Alyson talked about the tragic stories of three civil rights workers and Katelyn talked about the Orangeburg Massacre, it showed the violent backlash faced by those who wanted change in their community. These events put into perspective the personal sacrifices that people made for the cause of civil rights and how threats were everywhere.













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