Reference no: EM133473546

Civil Rights Reflection

We've taken some time to explore the events surrounding the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. It was clear as these events unfolded that the movement is not limited to a set time period- in fact, too many connections can be made to present-day experiences, and often, tragedies. Rather, it is a fluid, ever changing and evolving struggle demanding the attention of Americans today.  

For many, it is a reality to still be fighting for the same rights that individuals such as Martin Luther King Jr. or Malcolm X spoke about.  We must then consider our role in society, how we want to see ourselves and be seen, and how our actions can impact the greater good.

Answer the following questions using thoughtful language and detailed explanation to justify each response. Points will be taken off if you do not provide justification when asked.

1. Identify an example of something that is unfair and something that is unjust. It could be something that is happening in your neighborhood, country or in the world. What is the difference between the two? 
2. Why do people have different ideas about injustice? How do we learn what injustice is outside of books and Google?
3. Which strategies have people used to fight injustice throughout history? Which do you think have been most effective? How do you know? 
4. Do you think it is realistic for a young person (your age or older) to take action today compared to the ways in which we learned this chapter? To the same extent? Be sure to explain your reasoning behind your answer (Hint: Think about the actions of the Little Rock Nine, students holding sit-ins at lunch counters, Freedom riders, Freedom Summer voter registration volunteers, etc.).  Could you see yourself doing something like this? At what level would you see yourself taking action?
5. What does it mean to change society? Does the change have to affect many people? Could someone change society by influencing the people in his/her classroom? How?
6. Think of a time when something in your community, society, family, etc. changed. What brought about this change? How did the change happen and what was the trickle down effect?
7. Think of an example of a person in history who was powerful. Why do you think that person had power? Is power always visible? Explain. 
8. Consider Malcolm X's change of heart and vision.  Would we be as accepting in society today to something like that? Do you value when someone sticks to their guns or evolves through influence?
9. What is the relationship between an individual and society? Does society create the individual or does the individual create society? 
10. What else (besides a group of thoughtful committed citizens) can change the world? Is changing the world always good? Can change ever be negative? Use examples from history and current events to answer this question. Does the change have to affect many people?