Meaning: The quote by Carol Braun, a politician and former U.S. Senator, highlights the significant impact of the civil rights movement in the United States. It emphasizes that one of the most crucial victories of the movement was the transformation of societal attitudes towards racism. Braun asserts that the movement succeeded in making racism socially unacceptable and politically disadvantageous, effectively challenging the deeply ingrained prejudices that had long been pervasive in American society.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, racism was not only prevalent but also openly embraced by many individuals and institutions. It was a time when discriminatory practices and segregation were not only tolerated but also legally enforced in many parts of the country. Politicians, seeking to appeal to the prevailing sentiments of the electorate, often promoted racist ideologies and policies as a means of gaining support and advancing their careers. This created a culture in which racism was not only accepted but also rewarded, making it a significant obstacle to progress and equality.

The civil rights movement, which gained momentum in the 1950s and 1960s, sought to challenge and dismantle the systemic racism that permeated American society. Through nonviolent protests, legal challenges, and grassroots activism, the movement aimed to secure equality and civil rights for African Americans and other marginalized communities. One of its most enduring legacies was the fundamental shift in public perceptions of racism and the rejection of discriminatory beliefs and practices in both social and political spheres.

As the civil rights movement gathered strength and visibility, it drew attention to the injustices and inequalities perpetuated by institutionalized racism. The movement's leaders, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X, played pivotal roles in raising awareness and mobilizing support for the cause. Their efforts helped to galvanize a broad coalition of individuals and organizations committed to challenging racial discrimination and advocating for meaningful change.

The passage of landmark legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, represented significant milestones in the struggle for racial equality. These laws aimed to outlaw segregation, protect voting rights, and prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. While these legal victories were instrumental in dismantling overtly racist policies, they also contributed to the broader goal of challenging the social acceptance of racism and promoting a more inclusive and equitable society.

In the decades following the civil rights movement, the gradual shift towards a more inclusive and tolerant society became increasingly evident. The ongoing efforts to combat racism and promote diversity have led to greater representation and participation of minority groups in various aspects of public life, including politics, academia, and the corporate world. The election of Barack Obama as the first African American President of the United States in 2008 marked a historic milestone and a testament to the progress made in overcoming racial barriers in the political arena.

Despite these advancements, the legacy of racism continues to impact American society, and the struggle for racial justice remains an ongoing challenge. The persistence of systemic inequalities, racial disparities in areas such as education, employment, and criminal justice, as well as the resurgence of overtly racist rhetoric and actions, underscores the enduring significance of the civil rights movement's goals and ideals.

In conclusion, Carol Braun's quote encapsulates the profound impact of the civil rights movement in reshaping societal attitudes towards racism. By making racism unpopular and politically unviable, the movement achieved a transformative victory that reverberates through American society to this day. While the struggle for racial equality continues, the civil rights movement stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring pursuit of justice and equality for all.