(TruthAndLiberty.com) – The Department of Justice (DOJ) celebrated the Civil Rights Act of 1964’s 60th anniversary noting that they continue to be committed to prosecuting hate crimes, and violent threats and protecting Black Americans and their voting rights.
The Act had been signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson and it prohibits discrimination based on religion, national origin, sex, or race. During the anniversary celebration Attorney General Merrick Garland pointed out its importance for the country.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke honored civil rights leaders, including Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Medgar Evers, who had faced violence in their attempts to secure the passage of the act. Despite the progress that has been made, Garland pointed out that there has been an increase in hate crimes and attacks on civil rights. He added that voting rights threats are disproportionately affecting Black voters, which further complicates their voting capabilities.
Garland slammed the increasing violence against election officials and volunteers, stressing that such actions undermine democracy.
Garland also referred to some notable racial violence cases, such as the murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, underscoring the DOJ’s resolve to defend civil rights and democracy. Since 2021, the DOJ has charged more than 120 defendants in over 110 hate crime cases, this includes Arbery’s killers.
Clarke stated that the 1964 Act laid the foundation for ongoing civil rights efforts, honoring the courage of those who fought for its enactment. She affirmed the DOJ’s daily dedication to equal justice, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and its ongoing fight for justice and equality.
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