Southern Poverty Law Center History

The transcript discusses the founding of the Southern Poverty Law Center by a young lawyer, Joe Levin, and the speaker, who were involved in civil rights work. They incorporated as a non-profit to seek financial support. The initial lawsuits aimed to address unfinished business from the civil rights movement, focusing on voting rights and public employment for African Americans. The SPLC also targeted major hate groups, such as the Klan, and faced significant challenges, including threats and attacks. Despite these obstacles, the organization remained dedicated to its mission.

What was the primary reason for incorporating the Southern Poverty Law Center as a non-profit?

• To gain legal recognition

• To seek financial support from across the country

• To expand their legal team

• To establish a new office

Who was the co-founder of the Southern Poverty Law Center alongside the speaker?

• Rosa Parks

• Joe Levin

• Martin Luther King Jr.

• Thurgood Marshall

What was the initial profession of the speaker and Joe Levin before founding the Southern Poverty Law Center?

• Engineers

• Doctors

• Teachers

• Lawyers

What was one of the first major focuses of the Southern Poverty Law Center's lawsuits?

• Education equality

• Environmental protection

• Voting rights and elective office access

• Healthcare reform

What significant event in 1965 is mentioned in relation to the civil rights movement?

• The March on Washington

• The Selma bridge incident

• The Civil Rights Act signing

• The Montgomery Bus Boycott

In what year did the Southern Poverty Law Center file a lawsuit to integrate the Alabama State Troopers?

• 1965

• 1980

• 1990

• 1970

What was the broader mission of the Southern Poverty Law Center after integrating the Alabama State Troopers?

• To dismantle major hate groups

• To reform healthcare

• To promote economic development

• To improve public education

What was a significant outcome of the Southern Poverty Law Center's efforts against hate groups?

• Increased funding for the center

• 35 people imprisoned for attempting harm

• Closure of the center

• Expansion into international law

What event in 1984 highlighted the risks faced by the Southern Poverty Law Center?

• A financial crisis

• A major protest outside their office

• The burning of their building by a Klansman

• A lawsuit against the government

What does the speaker attribute their continued efforts in civil rights work to?

• Financial incentives

• Pressure from peers

• Dedication to their work

• A sense of bravery