Comparison of methods, influence and effectiveness of civil rights campaigns

Question 1

Methods?

Answer 1

• PG’s and social movements campaign for civil rights using many similar methods in both countries e.g. marches rallies, lobbying, direct action
• US PG’s use the courts more frequently, as their SC can strike down legislation as unconstitutional or make interpretative amendments to the constituiton

Question 2

Influence and effectiveness?

Answer 2

• Civil rights campaigns have changed public attitudes in both countries: today open display of racism, homophobia and misogony are generally considered unacceptable
• Religious campaigns have had much more influence in the US. Pro-choice abortion campaigners in the UK have successfully extended abortion rights to Northern Ireland, whereas in the US, rights have been threatened by state-led abortion restrictions, overturning of roevwade
• Campaigners for women’s rights have been more successful in the UK. Many US conservatives, including women, have opposed reforms including the equal rights amendment