Civil Rights mean a lot of things and varies from person to person. For me, Civil Rights are everywhere. Civil Rights are women being able to vote. Civil Rights are segregation-free schools. Civil Rights are being open about sexuality and identity. Civil Rights are women being in control of what happens to their bodies. Civil Rights are every person having the right to a fair trial. Civil Rights are public education for all. Civil Rights are access to governmental services for all. Civil Rights is the freedom to be who you really are. Civil Rights mean your loved ones don’t have to hide who they are or what they believe. Civil Rights is one step closer to closing the gender gap. Civil Rights are part of the definition of being American. Civil Rights are being truly free. Civil Rights are the opportunity to practice religion freely. Civil Rights are having the ability to protest to make changes. Civil Rights are free press and free speech. Civil Rights are everyone having a voice in society. Civil Rights are equal opportunity for employment. Civil Rights are a democratic government for the people. Civil Rights are everyone being treated equally. Civil Rights are a lot of things, but simply to me, Civil Rights represent the American way. Civil Rights allow me to express who I am and be treated like a real human being. Civil Rights are what make America the great country that it is today, and what makes citizens proud to be an American.

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In an effort to continue the important conversation about Civil Rights and our community values at UW-Platteville, the “Exponent” is still accepting submissions in response to the question “What are Civil Rights to me?”
We will accept submissions through May 1. Please send questions or submissions to Dr. Pip Gordon: [email protected].