"Just Like Selma" Civics Toolkit

The Just Like Selma Civics Toolkit extends the impact of the song by connecting its message to the ongoing story of American democracy. Through accessible historical context on the Voting Rights Act, exploration of contemporary challenges to voting rights, and practical ways to participate in civic life, the toolkit empowers all to better understand the past and take meaningful action in their communities. Designed for classrooms, community groups, and individual learners, it transforms inspiration into informed civic engagement. (15 pp.)

CONTENTS

PART 1. Welcome to the Movement

• Campaign reach
• Defining 'foot soldiers'
• About the song
• Why this campaign matters
• The Courageous Eight
• What the Voting Rights Act of 1965 accomplished
• Defining preclearance-
• Modern threats to the Voting Rights Act
• The impact of Louisiana v. Callais
• Your role in the Just Like Selma campaign: Becoming a modern-day 'foot soldier'
• Charting a course of action
• Community activation
• Interfaith & ecumenical engagement
• Music + multimedia resources

PART 2. JLS Calendar

• For a deeper dive...
• Optional spoken program notes
• Post-presentation spoken reflection