President Joe Biden visited the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act signed by President Lyndon Johnson. Originally scheduled for July 15, the visit was postponed due to Biden contracting COVID-19.
Biden's decision not to seek reelection has reshaped the political landscape, with Vice President Kamala Harris emerging as the likely Democratic nominee. Biden's withdrawal from the race, a rare occurrence for an incumbent president, was influenced by concerns within his party about his age and mental acuity following a debate performance.
Biden's presidency has been marked by efforts to advance civil rights and equity. His administration has focused on combating racial discrimination, providing federal funding to address segregation, and investing in historically Black colleges and universities.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964, a landmark legislation signed by Johnson, prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Johnson emphasized the importance of unity and progress in overcoming racial divisions.
Biden's commitment to civil rights includes plans to sign legislation expanding voting rights and a federal police bill named after George Floyd. He has also denounced hate, extremism, and violence, emphasizing the need for unity and respect for personal freedoms.
Later in the day, Biden will travel to Houston to pay his respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who passed away on July 19 at the age of 74.
