This collection documents the Atlanta Student Movement during the Civil Rights Era. It highlights student activism in the Atlanta University Consortium (AUC); Clark College, Morris Brown, Morehouse College, Atlanta University, and Spelman College. The collection includes newspaper and journal articles, flyers, reports, photographs, and correspondence by and about students from the AUC schools. Of note are copies of An Appeal for Human Rights written by student leaders, which set forth the student's grievances, rights, and aspirations as well as their dissatisfaction with the status quo conditions of segregation and discrimination and the slow pace at which inherent human and civil rights were being meted out to African Americans. The Appeal was published as a full-page ad in the March 9, 1960 editions of the Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta Journal, and Atlanta Daily World. It was subsequently published in the New York Times, providing national awareness of student activism in the civil rights struggle in Atlanta. The issuance of the Appeal was followed by sit-ins and pickets at specifically targeted businesses, government and transportation facilities in Atlanta and Fulton County, Georgia, and kneel-ins at churches. The participants in the Atlanta student movement organized commemorative reunions, 1990 and 2000 to re-examine the civil rights movement and discuss current efforts and projections for the future. Programs, minutes, correspondence, and news articles from the reunions are included in the collection. 

At the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library, we are always striving to improve our digital collections. We welcome additional information about people, places, or events depicted in any of the works in this collection. To submit information, please contact us at DSD@auctr.edu.
Aug 24, 2023

Atlanta Student Movement Collection

This collection documents the Atlanta Student Movement during the Civil Rights Era. It highlights student activism in the Atlanta University Consortium (AUC); Clark College, Morris Brown, Morehouse College, Atlanta University, and Spelman College. The collection includes newspaper and journal articles, flyers, reports, photographs, and correspondence by and about students from the AUC schools. Of note are copies of An Appeal for Human Rights written by student leaders, which set forth the student's grievances, rights, and aspirations as well as their dissatisfaction with the status quo conditions of segregation and discrimination and the slow pace at which inherent human and civil rights were being meted out to African Americans. The Appeal was published as a full-page ad in the March 9, 1960 editions of the Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta Journal, and Atlanta Daily World. It was subsequently published in the New York Times, providing national awareness of student activism in the civil rights struggle in Atlanta. The issuance of the Appeal was followed by sit-ins and pickets at specifically targeted businesses, government and transportation facilities in Atlanta and Fulton County, Georgia, and kneel-ins at churches. The participants in the Atlanta student movement organized commemorative reunions, 1990 and 2000 to re-examine the civil rights movement and discuss current efforts and projections for the future. Programs, minutes, correspondence, and news articles from the reunions are included in the collection.

At the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library, we are always striving to improve our digital collections. We welcome additional information about people, places, or events depicted in any of the works in this collection. To submit information, please contact us at DSD@auctr.edu.

This document succinctly outlines key historical events in the fight for civil rights: the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 and the Non-Violent Desegregation Movement from 1960 to 1961. It highlights the ongoing success of the boycott in the Atlanta Negro community, leading to decreased sales in downtown stores. Quoting a department store executive's statement about declining sales, the document emphasizes the impact of the boycott. It underscores the collaborative efforts of various groups, including ministers, churches, and social organizations, in advocating for human dignity and equal opportunity. The document urges readers to continue the boycott, refuse to support segregation, and actively spread awareness among their friends. Issued by the Committee on Appeal for Human Rights and the Student-Adult Liaison Committee. 1 page.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Due to their segregation policies, this flier urges people to boycott several stores, including Woolworth's, McLellan's, Walgreens, Efird's, Kress', and Hudson-Belk's. The flier explains that these stores do not allow African Americans to sit at lunch counters while accepting their money elsewhere. It highlights that peaceful student demonstrators face violence and embarrassment and have even been jailed and convicted. The flier encourages readers to take action by refusing to buy from these stores, signing petitions against discrimination, supporting protesting students, and joining picket lines manned by students from St. Augustine�s College, Shaw University, and the Raleigh Citizens� Association. The message emphasizes that collective support is crucial for ending segregation and winning the fight for equality. 1 page.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
These articles are interconnected through their focus on the civil rights movement and the efforts of young activists in the 1960s to achieve equal rights and social justice. The articles highlight different aspects of the movement, including the "sit-in" protests, the challenges faced by students advocating for integration and equal rights, and the legal implications of their actions. 3 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
A series of collected newspaper clippings about the Civil Rights Movement. 211 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This account describes a sit-in protest in the Sprayberry Cafeteria, where a group of individuals demanded service but were denied due to their race. Despite an attempt by the cafeteria's owner to have them leave, the protesters insisted on staying. Police were eventually called, leading to their arrest for trespassing. The account reflects the determination and resilience of the protesters in their pursuit of equal rights. 3 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
A series of collected newspaper clippings pertaining to the Civil Rights Movement and the Atlanta Student Movement from the Atlanta Inquirer, an African American publication. 24 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This telegram, sent by M. Carl Holman, the editor of the Atlanta Inquirer, expresses gratitude for previous assistance and mentions a need for a follow-up. Holman requests a concise wire as soon as the results are clear regarding the Negro vote in Los Angeles. He seeks information about the impact on the overall outcome, whether the voting pattern was similar across local, state, and national races, and how decisive issues influenced the vote. The telegram concludes by instructing Parham to have the response sent to the office of the Atlanta Inquirer on Hunter Street. 1 page.
This analysis focuses on the voting trend of African Americans in Los Angeles during the 1960 presidential election, discussing factors influencing their choices. The majority favored John F. Kennedy due to his stance on civil rights and concern for their community, while Richard Nixon's experience and anti-communist stance attracted some support. The impact of vice presidential candidates and issues like civil rights legislation are considered, with predictions indicating a close margin but a Kennedy victory in California. 3 pages.
This document describes a special meeting attended by prominent individuals, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. and Samuel W. Williams. The attendees discussed the coordination of student and adult leadership in the context of protest demonstrations. They explored the formation and function of a committee to address this issue. The meeting concluded with the decision that the committee would serve as an advisory body, and another meeting was scheduled for the following Monday to discuss the matter further. The document provides a glimpse into the discussions and decision-making process related to civil rights activism and leadership coordination. 1 page.
This telegram, sent by M. Carl Holman, the editor of the Atlanta Inquirer, urgently requests Johnny Parham Jr., to provide a concise overview of pre-election issues and trends among Negro voters in Los Angeles. The information is sought from various sources, including newspapers, polls, experts, and public opinions. The information is intended for publication in the Atlanta Inquirer's press on Wednesday morning, October 30th, 190. 1 page.
Atlanta Inquirer main article "Jail, No Bail Group in Jail, Cheerful, Confident", on Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., student leader Lonnie King, and fellow sit-in group members, confident in their cause, faced their arrest for violating trespass laws during a sit-in protest in Atlanta. After spending a night in Fulton County Jail, their spirit remained steadfast despite minor discomforts. The article reflects on the determination of the protesters and the prison conditions they endured, highlighting their commitment to challenging societal restrictions on human freedom and dignity. Other excerpts touch on topics such as civil rights, segregation, discrimination, education, and social issues prevalent during the 1960s. The newspaper highlights the struggles and challenges faced by African Americans in the segregated South and the efforts of civil rights activists and students to bring about change through nonviolent protest and activism. The excerpts also reflect on the role of education and the importance of breaking out of societal constraints and discriminatory practices. 4 pages.
Lonnie King, Marilyn Price, Martin Luther King, Jr.., and others were arrested after being denied service at Rich's Department Store, in downtown Atlanta.
Dr. Martin Luther King arrested with students. Left (partially visible) Morehouse student Lonnie King, (behind) Spelman students Marilyn Price, Blondean Orbert, followed by police.
This issue of "New South" delves into the ongoing student sit-in movement that began over a year ago in Greensboro, North Carolina, and has shown little sign of fading. The movement has evolved to include what is now known as the "Freedom Rides," which recently reached a climax with the Alabama riots. The magazine provides a brief overview of the movement's origins and its current forms of protest. 9 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Several students from the Atlanta University Center participated in a "Kneel-in" movement to challenge racial segregation in churches. Reflecting on their experiences, they emphasized the disparity between the teachings of the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man and the reality of segregation within churches. Despite being denied admission to certain churches, they expressed their determination to promote integration through worship and spiritual education. 1 page.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This press release highlights that despite intense pressures, the Atlanta student community remained steadfast in their peaceful march marking the anniversary of a significant Supreme Court decision, underscoring the conviction that nonviolent protest is aligned with African tradition and emphasizing the unity of both African American and white citizens against segregation, as shown by their heartening responses. The call for justice and equality is reinforced by the city's leaders and authorities who responded thoughtfully to the events. Included is a table tent advertising and assembly on student sit-in strikes with speakers John Mack and John Parham. 3 pages.
Students march down the street past Morris Brown College to the Georgia State Capitol.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
A state trooper holds a megaphone and keeps student marchers and others away from the state capitol building.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Students rest after the march to the state capitol. Left to right: Harold Middlebrooks, [unidentified], [unidentified], [unidentified], Ruby Doris Smith, Frank Holloway.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
A placard for the All Tech Assembly on student sit-in strikes with speakers John mack and John Parham. 1 Page.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This event program outlines the details of the Annual Meeting Dinner of the Allegheny County Council on Civil Rights. The event took place on Monday, May 16, 1960, at 6:30 P.M. in Rockwell Hall at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. 3 pages.
This document contains a letter addressed to Mr. Albert Paul Brinson from Curtis B. Gans, the National Affairs Vice President of the United States National Student Association. The letter expresses gratitude for Mr. Brinson's participation in the National Student Conference on the Sit-In Movement, held in Washington. Gans commends Brinson's courage and leadership in the civil rights movement, highlighting that his contribution inspires others. The letter emphasizes the importance of building a nation where all individuals can experience freedom. It concludes with appreciation for Brinson's efforts and encourages him to continue the fight for positive change. 1 page.
The "Immorality of Racial Segregation" document are reports, workshops, and essays from the Leadership Conference and Workshops sponsored by Greater Atlanta Council On Human Relations and Georgia Council On Human Relations from April 28th, 1960. The document's essays and reports are composed into packed. Each piece and report pertain to the racial issues and the impact of segregation in Georgia or the United States: social, psychological, religious, education, ethics, and morality. 20 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Dated April 12, 1960, this letter is addressed to Mr. James Felder, President of the Student Government Association at Clark College in Atlanta, Georgia. The letter is from Hugh Saussey, Jr., a native Georgian and Priest in the Episcopal Church. Saussey commends Felder for his article titled "An Appeal For Human Rights", published in March 1960, as well as for the peaceful demonstrations at public lunch counters. He expresses sadness about the role of churches in segregation and discrimination, stressing that these practices contradict the teachings of Christ and the true essence of the Church. 2 pages.
A letter dated April 12, 1960, from Peter G. Bourne, a member of Emory University's Division of Basic Health Sciences Department of Anatomy, addressed to Mr. Albert Brinson, Chairman of the Appeal for Human Rights Committee on Communications at Atlanta University. In the letter, Bourne mentions forwarding a copy of the "appeal" and related information to the National Council of Civil Liberties in Great Britain, an organization known for staging a successful boycott of South African products to protest racial inequality. Bourne also includes a $5.00 check to support those individuals risking their liberty to advocate for racial equality in the South. The document highlights international support and solidarity for the civil rights movement in the United States during that period. 1 page.
This letter is a heartfelt and supportive message addressed to recipients recently issuing a declaration of purpose. The author, Henry H. Crane, commends the recipients for their forthright, courageous, and timely declaration. He notes the wisdom of their decision to resist injustice without resorting to violence or revenge, drawing parallels to the approach of Christ, who overcame hate with love, symbolized by the Cross. 3 pages.
In this letter, Ward mentions his involvement with the Syracuse University chapter of Students for Democratic Action and their interest in writing letters to African American students participating in lunch counter demonstrations in the South. He congratulates the students at the Atlanta schools for sending a recent declaration of principles to Mayor Hartsfield, showing their discontent with the status quo. Ward also shares his academic challenges and encloses a letter to the student association president, requesting Dean Brazeal to forward it to him. He expresses hope to hear from Morehouse students soon. 1 page.
This document is a publication from the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) titled "Support Southern Students", It discusses student actions and demonstrations against racial segregation and discrimination in the Southern United States. The publication calls for nonviolent resistance, urging students to participate in protests, demonstrations, and other forms of activism. It emphasizes the importance of solidarity and cooperation between students, religious groups, and civic organizations to achieve racial equality. The document also provides information about various student-led actions, including sit-ins and picketing of businesses that practiced segregation. It encourages support for students expelled or arrested for their involvement in the civil rights movement and highlights efforts to raise funds for their assistance. The publication emphasizes the significance of these actions in bringing attention to the civil rights struggle and promoting change in discriminatory practices. 8 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Two letters from Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays, former president of Morehouse College. Both letters are to Albert Brinson at Atlanta University. The first letter is dated April 8th, 1960, about Dr. May's continuing to work to become a "Negro American" instead of an "American Negroes." The second letter, April 20th, 1960, was sent to Albert Brinson on Tanner Street. The letter discusses one of the Morehouse trustees, Dorothy Compton, meeting with the students who participated in the sit-down protest. Dr. Mays asks Brinson, with six other people, to meet with Compton in the Henderson Lounge in the Chemistry Building on Friday at 3:00 pm. 2 pages.
Published by the Atlanta University Student Committee in April 1960, this newsletter represents the inaugural edition of an informative organ. The bulletin is initiated by the Central Student Committee of the Atlanta University Center, aiming to inform students about actions taken and future plans to secure human dignity. Notably, the bulletin discusses including the "Appeal For Human Rights" in Congressional historical records, with Senator Jacob Javis confirming its serious consideration in the Senate. 1 page.
This document outlines the involvement of the United States National Student Association (USNSA) in the sit-in movement during the Civil Rights era. Established in 1947, USNSA represents over 375 colleges and universities across the United States through democratically elected student governing bodies, making it the largest National Union of Students globally. 68 pages.
This document pertains to the National Student Conference on the Sit-In Movement, providing a comprehensive event overview. The document encompasses crucial elements such as the conference agenda for April 22nd, conference rules, the layout of the main floor at All Souls Unitarian Church, general information, rule amendments, resolutions derived from the conference discussions, and transcripts of impactful speeches. Noteworthy speeches featured in the document include "Law and Order Must Be Maintained", delivered by Mahendra Widjesinghe, an address by James Alrut, President of the Methodist Student Movement, a compelling speech by Mr. Allard Lowenstein, President of USNSA, on April 22nd, 1960, a poignant contribution by Bernard Lee, Former Student Body President of Alabama State, an inspiring talk by Al Rozier from North Carolina A&T, a thought-provoking perspective from Sam Bowles of Yale University, an address by Curtis Gans, Vice President of National Affairs at USNSA, and a significant speech by Rev. Wyatt Walker. 24 pages.
The document outlines the schedule and details for the "Youth Leadership Conference on Nonviolent Resistance" held at Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina, from April 15 to 17, 1960. The conference aimed to evaluate the progress and implications of the student sit-in movement for civil rights. The schedule includes various sessions and discussions focusing on the potential of mass demonstrations, the strategic use of sit-ins, the role of picketing and economic pressure, the legal approach to activism, and the philosophy and techniques of nonviolence. The conference incorporates committees such as the Steering Committee, Reporting Committee, Committee on Findings and Recommendations, Press Committee, and Devotions Committee. Participants are encouraged to engage in discussions, contribute to committee work, and provide insights for furthering the movement. The document details arrivals and emphasizes timely attendance, particularly for the press conference and opening meeting. 2 pages.
Johnny E. Parham Jr.'s card for the National Student Conference on Sit-In Movement in Washington D.C. from April 22nd to the 23rd. 1 page.
This letter expresses gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Benjamin Mays, President of Morehouse College, for his cooperative assistance in their struggle for equal rights. The committee acknowledges the crucial support provided by Morehouse College's administration and emphasizes their shared goal of eliminating discriminatory practices based on race. The committee members listed are Albert Brinson (Chairman), Norma Wilson (Secretary), Julian Bond, and Lydia Tucker.
A police officer takes the names of protesters as a threat against protests at Sprayberry Cafeteria. These threats were noted to be rescinded at a later time.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Students were arrested by police for protesting a segregated cafeteria.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Students enter an Atlanta police car after being arrested for protesting a segregated cafeteria.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Atlanta University Center students at a hearing.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This is the front two pages of the Atlanta Journal Newspaper dated March 15th, 1960 with the headline "Segregation Sentiment Leads At School Student Midway Mark".  Most of the articles show that the issue of segregation was a hot topic in Georgia in 1960. The sit-in movement was a major challenge to the segregationist status quo, and the state school study commission's findings showed that there was strong support for segregation among the Georgians who testified. The articles also show the different ways that people were responding to the issue of segregation. The state school study commission was trying to find a way to keep the public schools segregated, while the sit-in movement was demanding desegregation. The articles show that the issue of segregation was complex and divisive and that there was no easy solution. 2 pages.
A note mentioning an enclosed statement. The committee requests serious consideration and support for their plea for human rights and invites the recipient to provide their comments. The committee members are Albert Brinson, Norma Wilson, Julian Bond, and Lydia Tucker. 1 page.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This appeal is a collective statement from students representing six affiliated institutions forming the Atlanta University Center, including Clark College, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, Spelman College, Atlanta University, and the Interdenominational Theological Center. These students came together to demand the rights that inherently belong to them as human beings and citizens of the United States. The appeal expresses unwavering support for the broader movement to obtain long-awaited rights and privileges for African Americans. It highlights the dissatisfaction with existing racial conditions and the slow pace of change. The appeal emphasizes the universal desire for dignity and equal treatment, underscoring the meaning behind the nationwide sit-in protests. 1 page.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This "New South" booklet was published by the South Regional Council in Atlanta, Georgia, and authored by John Constable, the Director of Information Southern Regional Council. This issue focuses on the protest movement against segregated lunch counters in North Carolina during the Civil Rights era. The issue highlights the initial surprise and uncertainty experienced by white leaders in response to the "sit-down" protests in the state. The Director presents findings from his visit to the cities involved in the protests, reflecting leaders' confusion and lack of direction. 9 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
A booklet titled "A Second Look. The Negro Citizen In Atlanta" by the Atlanta Committee for Cooperative Action. The booklet targets the socio-economic issues targeting the Black community in Atlanta. The committee aims to promote awareness and discussion rather than mere fault-finding. It expresses the hope that fellow Atlantans will read and consider the contents of the upcoming pages, even if perspectives on certain issues may differ. Ultimately, the foreword calls for a collective effort to address Atlanta's problems and maximize the use of all its human resources to become a truly great American metropolis. 11 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
A flier issued by the Committee on Appeal for Human Rights, addressing the Student Movement's efforts and urging Atlantans to participate in their campaign against racial segregation and discrimination in the city's establishments. The flier highlights the response to the Committee's previous circulation and the eagerness of progressive Atlantans to support the Student Movement's fight for human dignity. The document emphasizes the success achieved in other cities through similar movements and questions why Atlanta, a supposed leader among southern cities, hasn't joined this list of successes. The main focus of the flier is on urging citizens to stop buying at Rich's, a department store until all customers can access facilities and services without racial restrictions. The students have initiated sit-ins at Rich's to protest racial segregation, and the flier explains why the students took this action despite existing court cases on similar matters. It stresses that the fight against segregation is a community movement and calls for united action to bring about practical gains in the struggle for equality and human dignity. 2 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This newsletter, "The Student Movement and You", is a Committee on Appeal for Human Rights publication. It highlights the success of the Student Movement in Nashville, Tennessee, in achieving desegregation of downtown lunch counters and employment of Negro white-collar workers through a boycott. The document emphasizes that the boycott proved a powerful tool in the struggle for immediate recognition of civil rights. The flier narrates how sit-in demonstrations by Negro students led to arrests and negotiations with merchants. It outlines the boycott's impact on Nashville's economy, highlighting the loss of business and the subsequent changes in merchant attitudes towards desegregation. The document calls for a similar united effort in Atlanta and announces upcoming events and programs related to the Student Movement. 2 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This newsletter titled "The Student Movement and You", focuses on the struggle for equal rights and the boycott against segregationist establishments in Atlanta. The flier emphasizes the collective efforts required to bring about change and highlights the boycott's impact on sales at Rich's and A&P stores. It stresses that continued support of these businesses perpetuates segregation and calls on the community to unite against such practices. The document urges people to recognize the economic power of the Negro boycott and its influence on business decisions. The flier announces upcoming panel discussions and mass meetings related to the Student Movement and provides contact information for individuals interested in supporting the cause. It concludes by urging individuals to close their accounts with segregationist establishments and to choose freedom over discrimination. 2 pages.
This newsletter titled "The Student Movement and You", providing updates on the progress of the Student Movement and urging action against segregation. The flier highlights recent events and their impact on segregation and sales. It reports a drop in department store sales in central Atlanta, with a 22% decrease, which is attributed to a Negro boycott of Rich's Inc., a major department store in the region. The flier also discusses the success of Negro demonstrations and boycotts in achieving desegregation of lunch counters in three southern cities: Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Greensboro. It emphasizes the need to end all forms of segregation and encourages individuals to take action against it. The flier introduces the new newspaper "ATLANTA INQUIRER" and promotes an upcoming panel discussion on the Student Movement. 2 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
A collection of newspaper clipping about Civil Rights Protest: Negroes 'Sit In'  Here At 10 Eating Places, 1960; Rev. King Is Arrested Here in Montgomery Periury; Pastor Brinson with Dr. MLK and Rev A.D King, 1960;  Hope and Archer Memorialized, February 1960; Albert Brinson Intern At Ebenezer, March 15, 1960; Negroes Demonstrate The Atlanta Journal, 1960. 6 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This letter from the Committee on Communications at Atlanta University in Georgia appeals for moral and financial support for their cause of human rights. The letter describes the publication of their policy statement, "The Appeal For Human Rights," and the initiation of a "request for service" in Atlanta. As a result, 76 students were arrested and are awaiting trial, prompting the establishment of a defense fund to support these students in their legal battle. The letter urges recipients to send their communications and contributions to the Appeal For Human Rights and the Student Defense Fund at Atlanta University. The committee sincerely appreciates any sentiments offered to support their efforts. 1 page.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection