A violation of civil rights occurs when an individual's legal rights to freedom and equal treatment under the law are infringed upon. This can manifest in various forms, including discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability, as well as unlawful detention, police brutality, and violations of free speech. Civil rights are protected by laws and constitutional provisions, such as the Civil Rights Act in the U.S. When these rights are violated, it undermines an individual’s dignity and societal equity, often prompting legal challenges and advocacy efforts for reform and protection.