Meaning: The quote by Jonathan Lethem touches on the complexities and nuances of the civil rights movement and its aftermath. It highlights the idea that while significant progress was made in terms of legal and societal recognition of civil rights for minority groups, the economic and material disparities between different racial and social groups remained largely unchanged.

The civil rights movement in the United States, which reached its peak in the 1960s, was a pivotal moment in the country's history. It was a time of great social and political upheaval as African Americans and other marginalized communities fought for equal rights and an end to segregation and discrimination. The movement led to landmark legislative changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which aimed to dismantle institutionalized racism and ensure equal treatment under the law.

However, as Lethem points out, the attainment of legal rights did not necessarily translate to immediate material and economic equality. Despite the legal victories and the dismantling of some overtly discriminatory laws and practices, systemic inequalities and economic disparities persisted. Many African Americans continued to face barriers to economic advancement, including limited access to quality education, employment discrimination, and unequal opportunities for economic mobility.

The quote also draws attention to the shifting demographics and social dynamics that occurred in the wake of the civil rights movement. Lethem refers to the fact that many Jews, hippies, and artists - who were often associated with countercultural movements and marginalized communities - were able to achieve middle-class status, while the economic situation for many African Americans remained largely unchanged. This observation underscores the intersectionality of social and economic inequality, as it highlights how race, class, and other factors intersect to shape individuals' opportunities and experiences.

It is important to note that Lethem's statement reflects a particular perspective and experience, and it may not capture the full range of outcomes and changes that occurred in the aftermath of the civil rights movement. While it is true that significant economic disparities persist along racial lines in the United States, there have also been advancements and achievements within African American communities, including the rise of a burgeoning black middle class and the increased representation of African Americans in various professional fields.

In conclusion, Jonathan Lethem's quote encapsulates the notion that the attainment of civil rights did not automatically eradicate economic disparities and social inequalities. It serves as a reminder that the struggle for equality extends beyond the realm of legal rights and encompasses broader societal and economic dimensions. The quote prompts us to critically examine the multifaceted and ongoing nature of the civil rights movement and the challenges that persist in the pursuit of true equality and justice.