For many Americans who were denied the rights of full citizenship, surviving the Depression was not enough. They were determined to help build a better America through direct action in the courts, in the Congress, and in everyday life.  At a time when lynchings, segregation, and anti-Semitisim were commonplace, black heavyweight champion Joe Louis became a symbol of national strength. In very different ways, Louis and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt challenged America to live up to its promise of justice and opportunity for people of every race and faith.