The Civil Rights Movement was a major period in the United States history that focused on ending racial segregation and discrimination. Taking place mainly during the 1950’s and 1960’s, the movement led to important changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These laws helped create stronger legal protections for equal rights.

Although the movement happened decades ago, many believe its message is still relevant today. Issues such as equality, discrimination, and voting rights continue to be discussed in society; because of this, the Civil Rights Movement is still an important topic in schools and in current conversations about fairness.

Freshman Ariana Arreguin said she believes the Civil Rights Movement had a lasting impact on the country.

“It changed the way people see equality and showed that standing up for what’s right can actually make a difference,” Arreguin said.

Learning about the movement helps people understand how much progress has been made and why it is important to continue protecting equal rights.

Freshman Matei Baima shared his support for the movement and its goals.

 “Without the Civil Rights Movement, a lot of the rights people have today wouldn’t exist,” Baima said.

The Civil Rights Movement remains an important part of history, but it also serves as a reminder that progress takes effort. For many students, its lessons still connect to conversations happening in society today.

Written by senior Leslie Arreguin Zuniga . Edited by staff writers for Oswego East’s online news magazine The Howl.