Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-31) released a statement in honor of the 51^st anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, which was signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964.

“On this day, we remember and honor the heroic men and women who fought and died to make our nation more free. From Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus, to sit-ins across the south, to the march from Selma to Montgomery – today we reflect and honor those who risked and gave their lives in the name of equality,” said Rep. Aguilar.

He added, “We are forever indebted to those brave souls for their courage and relentless pursuit of liberty and freedom, which ultimately pushed our nation forward. May we remember their stories and sacrifices, and recommit ourselves to continuing the fight for full equality for all Americans under the law.”

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a defining moment and groundbreaking legislation during the Civil Rights Movement. It outlawed segregation in the public sphere and barred discrimination against prospective employees or those seeking government services based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It was originally offered by President John F. Kennedy, who did not live to see it come to fruition. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law by President Johnson.