What was the purpose of the Freedom Riders in 1961?

The purpose of the Freedom Riders in 1961 was to challenge segregation in interstate bus terminals and ensure that all Americans, regardless of race, could use these facilities equally. While the goal of registration of African-American voters is a significant aspect of the civil rights movement, the Freedom Riders specifically focused on integrating bus travel and terminals across state lines, particularly in the Southern United States. Their actions were aimed at testing the enforcement of federal laws that prohibited segregation in public transportation. This was a direct challenge to the deeply entrenched segregationist practices of the time, highlighting the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality.