The object of this bill was accomplished by specific appropriation in the Consular and Diplomatic Bill.[211]
PROTECTION OF CIVIL RIGHTS.
Remarks in the Senate, February 9, 1866.
January 5, 1866, Mr. Trumbull, of Illinois, introduced “a bill to protect all persons in the United States in their civil rights, and furnish the means of their vindication,” which was referred to the Judiciary Committee, of which he was Chairman. By this bill all courts, National and State, were opened to colored persons as parties and witnesses as to white citizens, and they were subject to like punishments. January 11th, he reported it to the Senate with amendments, and the next day the Senate proceeded to its consideration. The amendments were adopted, when, on motion of Mr. Trumbull, it was postponed. January 25th, its consideration was resumed, and continued until February 2d, when it passed the Senate,—Yeas 33, Nays 12.
March 13th, the bill passed the House of Representatives, with amendments,—Yeas 111, Nays 38. The Senate promptly concurred in the House amendments.
March 27th, President Johnson returned the bill to the Senate with his objections.
April 6th, after debate of several days, the bill passed the Senate again, notwithstanding the veto of the President, two thirds agreeing,—Yeas 33, Nays 15.
April 9th, it passed the House again, notwithstanding the veto of the President, two thirds agreeing,—Yeas 122, Nays 41.