Viola Desmond's Civil Rights Case

Viola Desmond attempted to buy a movie ticket but faced racial discrimination when she was refused a downstairs ticket. Despite being able to afford a more expensive ticket, she was left at the theater all night and charged with not paying the theater tax, which was a pretext for racial bias. Encouraged by her community to appeal, Desmond's case became a catalyst for Nova Scotia's civil rights movement. She was pardoned 63 years later, highlighting the injustice of her conviction.

Why was Viola Desmond denied a downstairs ticket at the movie theater?

• She didn't have an ID.

• She was of a different race.

• The theater was full.

• She didn't have enough money.

What was the official reason given for Viola Desmond's detention?

• She refused to leave the theater.

• She caused a disturbance.

• She was caught without a ticket.

• She didn't pay the theater tax.

What was the underlying reason for Viola Desmond's arrest?

• She didn't have a ticket.

• She was causing trouble.

• She was of a different race.

• She didn't pay the theater tax.

Who encouraged Viola Desmond to appeal her conviction?

• Her business partner

• Her community

• Her sister

• Her lawyer

How many years later was Viola Desmond pardoned?

• 55 years

• 60 years

• 50 years

• 63 years