The 1960s marked a period of civil rights that were expanded in the 1970s

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The Evolving Landscape of Civil Rights in the United States

The civil rights movement of the 1960s and 1970s brought about significant advancements in dismantling institutionalized discrimination and expanding equal rights for marginalized groups. However, the late 1980s marked a shift towards a more conservative Supreme Court, raising concerns about potential setbacks in civil rights progress.

Continued Reversal and Expansion of Civil Rights

The current composition of the Supreme Court has indeed led to mixed outcomes for civil rights, with certain groups experiencing both reversals and expansions of their rights. Some notable examples include:

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• Voting Rights: In 2013, the Supreme Court gutted key provisions of the Voting Rights Act, making it easier for states to implement restrictive voting laws, particularly targeting minority voters.

• Reproductive Rights: In 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, revoking the federal constitutional right to abortion and allowing states to impose severe restrictions or outright bans.

• LGBTQ+ Rights: While the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in 2015, it has also ruled against the inclusion of transgender individuals in certain protections against discrimination.

These examples demonstrate that civil rights remain a contested battleground, with the Supreme Court playing a central role in shaping the legal landscape.

Beneficiaries and Sufferers of the Current Supreme Court

The current Supreme Court composition generally favors the interests of conservative groups, while potentially disadvantaging marginalized groups. Those who may benefit from the current court include:

• Religious conservatives: The court has made rulings that align with religious conservatism, such as expanding the rights of religious groups to engage in public activities and allowing religious beliefs to be used as a defense in certain legal cases.

• Gun rights advocates: The court has strengthened gun rights by striking down restrictive gun laws and expanding the scope of the Second Amendment.

On the other hand, groups that may suffer from the current court include:

• Racial minorities: The court's weakening of voting rights protections and its decisions in cases involving affirmative action raise concerns about racial equality.

• Women: The overturning of Roe v. Wade has significantly impacted women's reproductive rights, particularly those with limited access to healthcare resources.

• LGBTQ+ individuals: The court's inconsistent rulings on LGBTQ+ rights leave this community vulnerable to discrimination and legal setbacks.

Two Groups Facing Unrecognized Civil Rights Infringement

Two groups whose civil rights are often overlooked include:

• Native Americans: Native Americans continue to face systemic discrimination and inequities in areas such as land rights, access to healthcare, and economic opportunities.

• People with disabilities: People with disabilities encounter various forms of discrimination, including barriers to employment, education, and public accommodations.

NASW Policy Statement on Civil Liberties and Social Justice

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Policy Statement on Civil Liberties and Social Justice addresses discrimination and equity issues by:

1. Affirming the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals: The statement emphasizes the fundamental human rights of all people, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other characteristics.

2. Recognizing the pervasive nature of discrimination: The statement acknowledges the ongoing existence of various forms of discrimination that hinder social justice.

3. Calling for social workers to advocate for civil liberties and social justice: The statement urges social workers to use their professional skills and influence to promote equal rights and protect against discrimination.

4. Providing specific guidance on addressing discrimination: The statement offers concrete examples of how social workers can intervene in cases of discrimination, promote inclusive policies, and challenge discriminatory practices.

Conclusion

The civil rights landscape remains complex and evolving, with the current Supreme Court playing a significant role in shaping the legal framework. While certain groups have experienced setbacks in their civil rights, others have seen advancements. However, marginalized groups such as Native Americans and people with disabilities continue to face unrecognized civil rights infringements. The NASW Policy Statement on Civil Liberties and Social Justice serves as a guide for social workers to advocate for equity and combat discrimination in all its forms.