Debating the Civil Rights Movement: Defending Nonviolent Resistance and the SCLC’s Legacy

Debate Instructions:

1. You will need to have at least 300 words in this Debate post plus full references due Wednesday …Research must be done in the library using JSTOR database or other sources that are creditable.

2. Also 2 Debate peer responses that make a contribution to the historical discussion with at least 100 words for each required response. Research must be done in the library using JSTOR database or other sources that are creditable.

3. You must reference using one of the three formats and following your major’s designated style: MLA, APA, CS, Kate L. Turabian’s Manual, and the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS).  YOU MUST CITE YOUR SOURCES! (See syllabus for links to the Style websites to learn how to cite and references)

Citations/references use your major degree’s style. See the link for your major’s style:

Citation Styles by Major: https://apus.libguides.com/programstyleguidesAPA Style: https://www.apus.edu/apus-library/resources-services/Writing/writing-center/apa-style-guide-info.htmlBLUE BOOK: https://www.apus.edu/apus-library/resources-services/Writing/writing-center/bluebook-style-guide-info.htmlChicago Style: https://www.apus.edu/apus-library/resources-services/Writing/writing-center/chicago-style-guide-info.htmlChicago part 2: https://www.apus.edu/apus-library/resources-services/Writing/writing-center/chicago-style-info-continued.htmlMLA Style: https://www.apus.edu/apus-library/resources-services/Writing/writing-center/mla-style-guide-info.html

Your arguments should come from your textbook, the lectures, videos, and the research you conducted in the APUS Library. The initial post with well referenced facts is due by Wednesday, 11:55 p.m. ET and 2 peer responses are due by Friday, 11:55 p.m. ET. Do not research on the Internet.

Image result for "1947"," protest", "NAACP", "Texas State University"

1947 protest march by NAACP youth members at Texas State University; from artstor.org.

Debate instructions:

You have been divided into two groups. Group A will support SNCC and what evolved into the Black Power movement. Group B will support the SCLC (Martin Luther King, Jr.’s movement). To participate in the debate, you need to research both positions. The required work will help you. Who will you be in this debate? What character will you pick? It does not have to be an actual historical figure. You can be, for example, a white SNCC worker, or a Black Panther working in the breakfast program. Stay in character for your responses because each response is part of the debating.

Post your initial post in character supporting your assigned position. You are then required to continue the debate by posting responses to the arguments of at least two classmates assigned to the opposing group.  Do not make assumptions. Instead, assume the historical role of someone who lived in the United States during this period. Whatever you write should be in character. Be creative! Remember that everything you argue, although in character, must be grounded in academic research and must demonstrate you have done the required work.

Group A: Your last name begins with the letter N-Z.

Group B: Your last name begins with the letter A-M.

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Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

I’m part of Group B

Engaging in a historical debate requires research, critical thinking, and staying in character. This guide will walk you through how to effectively structure your debate post while adhering to academic standards.

Step 1: Understand Your Role & Position

Since you are part of Group B, your task is to support the SCLC (Southern Christian Leadership Conference) and its philosophy of nonviolent resistance, as led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

  • Research SCLC’s mission, tactics, and key events
  • Familiarize yourself with their stance on civil rights, nonviolence, and social change
  • Choose a historical role (fictional or real), such as:
    • A local Black preacher supporting nonviolent protests
    • A college student participating in sit-ins
    • A church leader organizing voter registration drives

Step 2: Structure Your Initial Debate Post (300+ Words)

1. Introduction – Establish Your Character & Stance

Begin your post in character by introducing yourself and your stance. Example:

“My name is Sarah Williams, a young college student from Montgomery, Alabama. As a proud supporter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, I firmly believe in the power of nonviolence to dismantle racial injustice. Inspired by Dr. King, I march, sit in, and pray because love, not violence, is the only path to true justice.”

2. Core Argument – Defend Nonviolent Resistance

Use historical evidence and research from JSTOR to argue why SCLC’s nonviolent approach is the most effective strategy for achieving civil rights. Address the following points:

  • Moral & Ethical Grounds:

    • Nonviolence aligns with Christian values and America’s democratic ideals.
    • “Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Dr. King.
  • Effectiveness in Achieving Civil Rights:

    • The Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955–1956) led to desegregation.
    • The March on Washington (1963) helped push the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
    • The Selma to Montgomery March (1965) contributed to the Voting Rights Act.
  • Contrast with Black Power Movement:

    • Violence alienates white allies and slows progress.
    • The Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act were won through peaceful protest, not armed struggle.

3. Countering Opposing Arguments

Anticipate what Group A (SNCC & Black Power movement supporters) might argue, and refute it using historical research. For example:

“While some believe self-defense is necessary, history shows that armed resistance only led to increased government crackdowns, as seen with the FBI’s targeting of the Black Panthers. In contrast, SCLC’s nonviolent resistance forced America to confront its injustices without resorting to bloodshed.”

4. Conclusion – Reaffirm Your Position

Summarize your argument and close with a compelling statement:

“We do not seek to humiliate our oppressors, but to transform them. Only through love, unity, and nonviolence can we achieve the Beloved Community that Dr. King envisions.”

Step 3: Engage in the Debate (Two Peer Responses – 100+ Words Each)

Respond in character to two classmates from Group A who support SNCC and Black Power. Your responses should:

  • Acknowledge their argument, but respectfully challenge their viewpoint.
  • Provide historical examples and citations to support your counterpoint.
  • Stay in character and maintain historical accuracy.

Example Response:

“Brother, I understand your frustration. The pain of segregation and brutality is unbearable. But let me remind you—violence only fuels more violence. When we marched peacefully in Selma, the world saw our suffering, and change followed. The Voting Rights Act was not won with guns, but with prayers and perseverance. Will you join us in making lasting change?”

Step 4: Formatting & Submission Checklist

Length: 300+ words for the initial post, 100+ words for each response.
Research: Use JSTOR or other library sources—no internet sources.
Citations: Use MLA, APA, Chicago, or Turabian, based on your major.
Grammar & Clarity: Proofread for spelling, punctuation, and coherence.
Submission Deadlines: Initial post by Wednesday, 11:55 PM ET, responses by Friday, 11:55 PM ET.

By following this structured approach, you’ll create a compelling, well-researched debate post that brings history to life. 🚀

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