Supposed Threats on Freedom
The 1960’s marked a revolutionary era for The United States; during its former half, America faced a pivotal decision: the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Though the legislation ultimately came to pass not every citizen shared such conviction. After having read a multitude of letters to Harold T. “Bizz” Johnson, it is apparent that people found great discomfort in aspects of the bill — some parts more than others.
In the late 60’s, there was a great fervency of opposition against the bill; persons, such as Malcolm K. Hartwig, feared a loss of freedom, a rise in Communism, and most notably the fear of losing the “sacred right of private property.” Starting in the 1920’s, a great fear of Communism had taken hold of most Americans, and this bill had been viewed as a means of infiltrating the country and promote “civil disorder.” Mr. Hartwig had this to say to congressman “Bizz” Johnson.
Hartwig’s primary concern — as was the case with most Americans who had written to Bizz Johnson — was Title VIII of the bill. What this essentially meant was that no one person could be discriminated against in regards to sale, rental, and financing of dwellings based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Interestingly enough, the intentions behind the bill pertained only to a desire for equality and the spreading of freedom — of “American” ideals; however, many were not ready to bring others to their level.
Hartwig noted on the prevalence of Communist presence in the bill, but this was nothing more than an irrational presumption on the oppositions’ part. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights activists had frequently been accused of either being or associating with Communists, but none of the relevant accusations pulled through. Though it is not directly mentioned in the letter, it is worth mentioning that the free love movement most likely influenced his train of thought, as the notion did promote anti-establishment policies.
Fortunately, the bill gained enough traction to pass. Originally proposed by President John F. Kennedy, President Lyndon B. Johnson would see the bill through. This letter — not written 10 days prior to Kennedy’s assassination — reflected feelings ubiquitous in many Americans, and it should be noted that remarks of impending doom in case of the bill’s passing were nothing but a mere fantasy.
