Lots of random acts/laws were put into place to make things hard for southern blacks. For example, literacy tests and fees to be able to vote were instituted in some states as blatant ways to stop blacks from voting.
It was primarily that FDR thought such a willingness to help the cause of minorities during the 1930s would "turn off" members of Congress, whom he needed to help pass his New Deal legislation.
Many faced discrimination.
Used to say that it is good and acceptable to not obey a rule. It also applies to symbolism.
