Civil Rights or Freedom? When Vietnam & the Civil Rights Movement Clashed
The 1960s were a time when people were advocating for equality and peace. It was a tumultuous era where some citizens looked to the government for equality while others criticized the government for the nation’s role in international affairs.
Read the highlighted portion of this letter from former baseball player Jackie Robinson to President Lyndon B. Johnson from April 18, 1967. Think about the context of that date (the events happening in the United States and the world in 1967 that you know of from your studies and that Robinson is referring to). Then respond to the questions below.
This letter was written by Jackie Robinson to President Lyndon B. Johnson on April 18, 1967. Examine the highlighted area to better understand the following:
- What was Robinson concerned about?
- The Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964, almost 2 years before this letter was written. What continuing issues did Robinson bring up to the President?
- What does Robinson allude to as a result or consequence for the United States if President Johnson does not continue to hold firm on civil rights?
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