Civil Rights or Freedom? When Vietnam & the Civil Rights Movement Clashed

Use this activity while teaching about the 1960s, the Civil Rights Movement, or the Vietnam War. For grades 7-12. Approximate time needed is 30-45 minutes.

Before beginning the activity, students should understand the basic aspects of the Civil Rights movement as well as the Vietnam War. They will rely on their knowledge of both to analyze the document and complete the final task.

Ask students to complete the activity individually or in pairs, either in class or independently outside of class. Alternatively, you can look at the activity as a full class and assign the final activity to be done individually.

Students should begin by reading the letter and focusing on the highlighted sections. Next, they will be asked to consider or respond to the discussion questions provided:

• What was Robinson concerned about?
• The Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964, almost 2 years before this letter was written. What continuing issues did Robinson bring up to the President?
• What does Robinson allude to as a result or consequence for the United States if President Johnson does not continue to hold firm on civil rights?

Lastly, they should click on “When You’re Done” where they will be presented with their final task:

• How do you think President Johnson felt when he received Jackie Robinson’s letter? What thoughts were going through his head regarding civil rights and the conflict in Vietnam? How does he lead the nation and provide for all its citizens?
• Draft a response from LBJ to Robinson. This response should be in the form of a letter.