In what ways did president Richard Nixon send mixed messages regarding civil rights?

President Richard Nixon sent mixed messages regarding civil rights by advocating for some policies that benefitted African Americans while simultaneously employing strategies that undermined their progress. He supported affirmative action and expanded the enforcement of civil rights laws, yet he also sought to appeal to a "silent majority" that harbored racial biases, often prioritizing Law and Order over social justice. Additionally, his administration's response to desegregation efforts was often tepid, reflecting a reluctance to fully embrace the Civil Rights Movement. This duality left many feeling uncertain about the true commitment of his administration to racial equality.