The Widening Struggle Chapter 47

1 Now’s goal was to bring women into full participation in the mainstream of American society. The organization focused on legal reforms and workforce discrimination, demanding equal opportunity. In the late 60s some activists saw women’s liberation-the emancipation of women from custom s and laws that kept them subordinate to men-as their goal. Women worked for the passage of the ERA, for equal access to educational programs, and for reproductive rights.

2 Although the Equal pay and Civil Rights acts set important precedents, neither brought many benefits for women. The 1963 act affected only women’s jobs that were identical to men’s, leaving the glass ceiling intact. The 1964 act prohibited discrimination based on sex. But brought few immediate benefits to women. Title IX, however, opened educational opportunities for women especially in sports.

3 Chavez and the United Farm Workers used strikes, boycotts, and hunger strikes as political tools. Their strategies were non-violent like King’s.

4 The young Chicanos who formed La Raza Unida, or “The People United”, identified with their roots in Ancient Mexico. By claiming their links to the Aztecs, they hoped to find a common bond among Mexican Americans. They formed a political party and ran candidates in the state and lo9cal elections.

5 American Indian activist launched protests, including the occupation of Alcatraz Island, the Trail of Broken Treaties Caravan, The occupation of the Pine Ridge Reservation near Wounded Knee, and the cross country longest walk.

6 Asian-American student groups organized a movement to end racial oppression, using student strikes. Their goals: More minority participation in university affairs, and academic programs focusing on ethnic and racial issues. Results: Colleges and universities set up ethnic studies programs; students gained understanding of their identity and right in American society. Other activists were the Japanese Americans who spoke out against discrimination suffered during WWII. Their goals: sought compensation for internment. Results: Day of Remembrance spread to several cities, raising awareness: Congress authorized payments for survivors of interment.