Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer delivered remarks at the Justice Department’s celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on July 9, 2024.
"Thank you, Deputy Attorney General Monaco. As we gather to celebrate and reflect on the Civil Rights Act of 1964, we have to begin by acknowledging the debt we owe to the countless individuals whose tireless efforts and unyielding bravery were critical in the fight to dismantle deeply engrained systems of discrimination and segregation. We are here today because of their struggle, sacrifice, and courage," Mizer stated.
Mizer highlighted President Johnson's words from sixty years ago when he signed the Act, noting that millions of Americans were being deprived "of 'the blessings of liberty.'" The purpose of the landmark Civil Rights Act was "to promote a more abiding commitment to freedom, a more constant pursuit of justice, and a deeper respect for human dignity." He acknowledged significant progress since then but emphasized that the pursuit of justice must continue.
"The Act gave the Justice Department critical tools to protect Americans’ civil rights," said Mizer. He also noted partnerships with other federal agencies and civil rights organizations as crucial elements in enforcing these protections.
"We have worked with the Department of Education to combat harassment and discrimination that limit students’ opportunities based on race, national origin, sex, religion, and disability," he said. Additionally, collaboration with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has addressed workplace harassment and discrimination.
Beyond enforcement tools, Congress created the Community Relations Service (CRS) as "America’s Peacemaker" to mitigate tensions and foster reconciliation within communities. Mizer mentioned CRS' role in significant historical events such as mediating during Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s march in Selma in 1965 and protests in Ferguson in 2014.
CRS conciliators have been pivotal in reducing racial tensions in schools and fostering inclusive learning environments across America. Their expanded authority under laws like the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act enables them to help communities prevent hate crimes.
"As we spend the rest of the day reflecting on how the Civil Rights Act shaped our country for the last 60 years," concluded Mizer, "may we renew our shared commitment and partnership to fulfilling its mandate and our country’s promise of equality for all."