The passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act is a perfect example of the legislative process. The bill began as a dream of civil rights leaders and President John F. Kennedy.
It was then promoted by President Lyndon Johnson, who encouraged representatives to
support the bill. The bill passed in the House and it then went to the Senate. Lobbying
pressure made the senators finally vote for the bill. President Johnson joyfully signed the
bill at a big ceremony (pictured here). He spoke to the nation about the importance of this
act, saying that it was right and just. The act was tested in the supreme court which ruled
that the Civil Rights Act was constitutional and would remain the law.

Knowledge

List in order the steps for a bill to become a law.

Analysis

Survey the people in this photo. What conclusions can you make as to who was
attending this event? What groups do you think were attending? Can you find anyone
from the Kennedy family or any famous civil rights leaders?