Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, was a segregated city until the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a landmark piece of legislation that aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination in public places, including hotels, restaurants, and other establishments. This act also prohibited employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Before the Civil Rights Act of 1964, segregation was prevalent in many aspects of life in Washington, D.C., including schools, public transportation, and public facilities. The act was a significant step towards dismantling racial segregation and promoting equal rights for all Americans. However, it is essential to note that even after the Civil Rights Act, the struggle for civil rights and racial equality continued in various forms, and progress has been ongoing in the years that followed.