Civil Rights in America

To live freely and participate in society is a right many take for granted. Achieving and maintaining those civil rights have been a struggle for different groups throughout U.S. history. Civil rights mean more than the protests of the 1950s and 1960s and reach beyond racial and ethnic groups. Today, the struggle has gone from an issue of racial equality to equality for all and new voices are engaging in the discussion, helping to define who we are as a people and a nation.

President Lyndon Johnson signing a bill with a large crowd standing behind his desk

The Civil Rights Act of 1964

The Act was a milestone moment in the nation's history of civil rights by legally outlawing certain forms of discrimination.

Video screen capture of a tall statue of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at night

"Realizing the Dream"

Sixty years after the Civil Rights Act of 1964, explore national parks that tell the story leading up to its creation and beyond.

Man speaking into multiple microphones with people watching in background

We Shall Overcome Travel Itinerary

Learn more about the places of the Civil Rights Movement.

Black and white image of a woman smiling at a camera with hands clapping around her

African American Civil Rights Network

The network was created to provide a comprehensive narrative of people, places, and events of the African American Civil Rights Movement.

B&W photo of finger print card with Rosa Parks signature

Pivotal Moments in Civil Rights History

For almost 400 years, pivotal moments forever shaped what we know, think, feel, and remember about civil rights in America.

B&W photo of civil rights leaders standing next to President Eisenhower

The Modern Civil Rights Movement

March into history with the transformation figures and events of 1954-1964.

Rangers in flat hat mingle with large group walking across steel arch bridge

Find civil rights–related ranger talks, workshops, special celebrations, commemorations, and more.

three people standing on stage, woman on right with microphone in hand

Read the latest civil rights–related news from across the National Park Service.

Historic photo of men marching arm and arm

Contact the NPS staff working on the African American Civil Rights Network.

Last updated: June 28, 2024

Visit Civil Rights Parks

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