Bill Foster: The Civil Rights Act of 1964

…from my email the other day:

Dear Friend, Fifty years ago, President Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Civil Rights Act of 1964, one of the greatest legislative achievements in the history of our country. In a historic action, members of both parties came together to pass this landmark legislation, which outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin. My father was a civil rights lawyer, who had a significant role writing the enforcement language behind Title VI of the Civil Rights Act – the part that was used to desegregate public school systems in the South. I spoke about this historic moment on the floor of the House of Representatives. You can watch the video here:     Like me, my father was trained as a scientist. While growing up in the South, he saw firsthand the struggles for equality and basic human rights. He saw civil rights as the great cause of his generation. Wanting to serve his fellow man, he became a civil rights lawyer and went on to write the federal guidelines for the implementation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, the detailed rules that called out what Southern school systems had to do each year to desegregate their schools to qualify for federal funds. I am proud to continue my family’s long tradition of fighting for civil rights in this country as a Member of Congress and will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that the American dream a reality for all Americans. Consider forwarding this email or tell your friends and family to sign up here to receive updates on the work we’re doing in Washington, DC and at home in Illinois. Remember I am here to work for you. If you have any questions, or concerns please feel free to e-mail me, call our office, or connect with me on Facebook and Twitter. Sincerely, Bill Foster Member of Congress E-mail Updates Yes, please periodically send me e-mail updates.* *By subscribing to my e-mail updates, you are authorizing me to send regular e-mail updates from my office to your e-mail account. Tell a Friend E-mail: Washington D.C. Office 1224 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225·3515 Hours: M-F 9-5:30pm Aurora Office 2711 E New York Street Suite 204 Aurora, IL 60502 Phone: (630) 585·7672 Hours: M-F 9-5:00 PM Joliet Office  195 Springfield Ave Suite 102 Joliet, IL 60435 Phone: (815) 280·5876 Hours: M-F 9-5:00 PM