Civil Rights

Readings and activities on wartime threats to civil liberties, the history of such threats, and the Constitutional basis for civil liberties.

After discussing the news from New York, students explore how the bill came to be passed - including the strategies and personal experiences that influenced legislators' decisions.

A student reading provides an excerpt from Judge Walker's ruling that California's Prop 8 is unconstitutional and describes competing opinions on gay marriage. A critical thinking activity follows.

Teaching students these strategies to deal with problems that come up with friends can help create a more peaceable classroom.