What significant legislation was implemented to improve civil rights for LGBTQ+ individuals?

The Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court decision is significant as it legalized same-sex marriage nationwide in the United States. This 2015 ruling by the Supreme Court established that states are required to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples and recognize those marriages performed in other jurisdictions. It was a landmark victory for LGBTQ+ rights, affirming the principle that marriage is a fundamental right to all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation. This decision has had lasting implications for civil rights, contributing to the broader movement for equality and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals within society.

In contrast, the other options address different aspects of civil rights and do not specifically focus on the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the same way. The Defense of Marriage Act, for instance, originally defined marriage as a union between one man and one woman, which was ultimately ruled unconstitutional for federal purposes. The Equal Rights Amendment primarily aims to guarantee equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex, while the Civil Rights Act of 1964 deals with discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, but does not explicitly include sexual orientation or gender identity.