Presidents and Pioneers: The Names Behind Legislation

Throughout U.S. history, presidents, vice presidents, first ladies, and other leaders have shaped the nation’s progress on racial justice. Some signed landmark civil rights legislation, while others broke barriers in government. Their leadership, alongside activists and lawmakers, has played a key role in the ongoing struggle for equality.

In this puzzle, uncover the names of presidents and other historic figures who have contributed to racial justice.

Note: Note: In multiple-word answers, there are no spaces in between the words. Example: HARRYTRUMAN

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  • 5 First Black president of the United States, elected in 2008.
  • 8 Signed Executive Order 8802, banning racial discrimination in wartime industries.
  • 9 Signed legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday.
  • 11 First woman of color to serve as Vice President of the U.S.
  • 1 First Black woman elected to Congress from the South.
  • 2 Signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965.
  • 3 First Black woman to serve in a U.S. Cabinet position.
  • 4 First Black woman to serve as U.S. Secretary of State.
  • 6 First female Cabinet member, helped push labor protections that benefited BIPOC workers.
  • 7 First Black woman to run for a major party’s presidential nomination.
  • 9 Civil rights leader who later served in Congress, awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
  • 10 Ordered the desegregation of the U.S. military in 1948.

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