Civil Rights and Equality

Definition

Civil rights and equality refer to the principle of ensuring equal social opportunities and protection under the law, regardless of race, religion, gender, or other characteristics.

Analogy

Think of civil rights and equality as a game of musical chairs. Everyone should have an equal chance at getting a chair when the music stops, no matter who they are or where they come from.

Related terms

Discrimination: This is unfair treatment based on prejudice against a certain group.

Equal Protection Clause: A clause in the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that prohibits states from denying any person within its jurisdiction equal protection under the law.

Affirmative Action: These are policies designed to increase representation of minorities in areas of employment, education, and business from which they have been historically excluded.