A civil right is an enforceable right or privilege, which if interfered with by another gives rise to an action for injury. Examples of civil rights are freedom of speech, press, and assembly; the right to vote; freedom from involuntary servitude; and the right to equality in public places. Discrimination occurs when the civil rights of an individual are denied or interfered with because of their membership in a particular group or class. Statutes have been enacted to prevent discrimination based on race, sex, religion, age, previous condition of servitude, physical limitation, national origin, and in some instances sexual preference. Civil rights attorneys handle cases involving the rights of individuals to be free from unequal treatment (or discrimination) based on legally-protected characteristics such as race, gender, disability, national origin, age, sexual orientation, and religion. Civil rights cases can arise in a number of settings -- including employment, housing, lending, and education.
Port Hueneme is a small beach city in Ventura County, California surrounded by the city of Oxnard and the Pacific Ocean. The name derives from the Spanish spelling of the Chumash wene me, meaning "resting-place". Area was discovered by Cabrillo in 1542 and the original city of Hueneme is the second-oldest city in Ventura County. Name was officially changed to Port Hueneme in 1939. The population was 21,845 at the 2000 census. Port Hueneme has a south-facing sand beach, known for its surfing, year-round mediterranean climate and beach park. The beach stretches eastward about a mile from the harbor and the naval base and includes a wooden fishing pier. There are also picnic tables and small bring-your-own charcoal barbecues. The beach and picnic areas are popular weekend destinations during the summer season—Memorial Day (late May) through Labor Day (early September).