Civil Rights

Civil rights pertain to the rights of individuals to receive equal treatment (and to be free from unfair treatment or discrimination) in various settings and circumstances, including education, employment, housing, and more, based on specific protected characteristics. Historically, civil rights movements have sought to address and rectify systemic inequalities based on race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other categories. The U.S. has a storied history of civil rights movements, from the struggles of African Americans against racial segregation to the women's suffrage movement, LGBTQIA+ rights activism, and more.

When evaluating policies, voters might consider the track record of candidates or parties on civil rights issues, legislation aimed at either expanding or restricting certain civil rights, the balance between individual freedoms and collective rights as well as the potential influence of external groups or organizations on a candidate's stance on civil rights.