America's legislative process is all founded on the Constitution of the United States. Behind all the bureaucracy involved in this detailed document exists a world of opportunity for people of all nationalities to grow and expand in an effort to achieve their "American Dream". The legislative process allows citizens to make laws that improve living conditions and protect citizens. Our government has allowed a period of evolution, and allowed people of all races, including Black Americans, the opportunity to participate in several aspects of government, but none of this came without struggle.
Black Americans have made significant advances in our struggle for equal rights during the Reconstruction period. During Reconstruction, Congress passed several laws to protect Blacks civil rights. The 13th Amendment, adopted in 1865, abolished slavery in the United States, but left the option open for Congress to re-enforce. In 1868, the 14th Amendment made former slaves citizens.
English: Photograph of Rosa Parks with Dr. Martin ...
English: Dr. Martin Luther King giving his "I Have...
Martin Luther King leaning on a lectern. Deutsch: ...This amendment also provided equal protection of the laws in an effort to protect Blacks. The 15th Amendment prohibited the states from denying people the right to vote because of their race. Civil Rights are an essential element of our advanced governing system, which has lifted several stumbling blocks individuals have faced. When rights are challenged, Courts determine the limits of civil rights, in an effort to not violate the rights of others. Blacks wanted all their rights and anticipated change.
Black Americans make up the largest minority group in the United States and have been denied their full civil rights more than any other minority group. Civil rights include freedom of speech, the press, religion, the right to own property and receive fair and equal treatment from government. Leaders of the civil rights era such as, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X utilized their rights and contributed their...