Their Story
On June 7, 1998, James Byrd Jr. was murdered by three white racists in Jasper, Texas. He was dragged behind a pickup truck for miles, a horrific act of racial violence that shocked the nation and led to hate crime legislation.
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James Byrd Jr.
May 2, 1949 – June 7, 1998 Jasper, Texas
Who They Are
James Byrd Jr. was murdered by white racists in Jasper, Texas in 1998 in one of the most brutal hate crimes of the modern era, murdered for the color of his skin.
Major Accomplishments
- His murder led to Texas Hate Crimes Act
- His case brought national attention to racial violence
Impact & Legacy
Byrd's tragic death led to stronger hate crime laws and continued to remind Americans of the violence of racism.
Did You Know?
He was dragged behind a truck by racists
His death led to Texas Hate Crimes Act
His murder shocked the nation
Sources & Learn More
Credible references for the information presented on this page.