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.

For:
  • Decade = 1960-1969
This document is a reprint of the first edition of "The Atlanta Inquirer" newspaper, dated August 7, 1960. The front page highlights three legal suits filed by students seeking an end to racial bias in a cafeteria located on tax-supported premises. The document also features an appreciation letter from the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, expressing their support for establishing "The Atlanta Inquirer" as a means of open communication and appeals within the African American community. Additionally, the document announces a historical marker dedication event commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Atlanta University Center Student Movement for Civil Rights and the Appeal for Human Rights, scheduled for March 31, 2000. 1 page.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
The first issue of the publication "Nitty Gritty", published in Atlanta, contains various articles discussing the paper's purpose, the conditions and challenges African American citizens face in Atlanta, and the need for political change. The paper aims to address the real issues affecting people in the "Nitty Gritty" areas of the city. It criticizes the city's politicians and government for not adequately addressing the needs of its citizens, particularly in terms of housing, education, and representation. The publication also highlights efforts by activists to address issues of slum housing, evictions, and poverty in Atlanta's marginalized communities. The paper calls for organized action and change to address the systemic inequalities faced by Black people in the city. 4 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
Various news clippings, including articles by Julian Bond and Ben Brown on student sit-ins and racial equality. 4 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
The essay highlights the significance of passive resistance and non-violence as potent strategies in the struggle against racial segregation and discrimination in the South, emphasizing the effectiveness of withstanding violence without retaliation and understanding the motivations behind the oppressors' actions to subdue their attacks, ultimately countering the emotional-driven violence resulting from racial hatred and discrimination. 2 pages.
The correspondence was addressed to the Transfer Board of Local Board No. 5 of the Selective Service System in New York. Parham reports his compliance with their directive to appear for an examination which concluded on May 24, 1962. He acknowledges omitting information that he was recently arrested on April 21, 1962, for trespassing in Charles County, Maryland, and is currently released on bail. The letter is a belated notification of his legal situation. 1 page.
In "Broken by Love", Robert E. Jones Felder explores the maturing determination of the African-American community for freedom, tracing the evolution from passive acceptance to active engagement through the contrasting lenses of Christianity and the emerging Black Muslim movement, emphasizing the importance of love and nonviolence in dismantling deeply rooted traditions of segregation and discrimination. 2 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This report provides an overview of various organizations that supported the student protest movement in the United States. The first sit-in in February 1960 sparked the movement at Greensboro, N.C., involving Black college students. The report highlights the widespread endorsement and backing of local and national organizations. The summary concludes by underscoring that the extent of support from these diverse organizations, in terms of active participation, financial aid, public statements, and resolutions, reflects the significant impact of the sit-in protests on the collective American conscience during that period. 4 pages.
"The Young Negro Rebels" provides an in-depth exploration of the thoughts, motivations, and actions of young African American students involved in the Southern civil rights movement. The author, Charlotte Devree, reflects on her experiences traveling with these students on Freedom Rides and interacting with them during sit-ins and protests. The students' approach to rebellion and social change challenges conventional notions of political action. Devree emphasizes the students' Christian revolutionary spirit, restraint in the face of adversity, and rejection of hatred. Despite diverse backgrounds and limited education, these students are driven by a purpose to end segregation and attain personal identity and pride. The narrative reveals the complexity of their attitudes toward rebellion, challenges stereotypes, and highlights their unique forms of resistance and determination. 6 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
"The Atlanta Story", an excerpt from The Courier, discussing  Sweet Auburn Avenue and Herman E. Perry. Perry, a pioneer in Atlanta's development, played a significant role in shaping the city's growth by sparking progress in various fields. His contributions to Atlanta's development and his dedication to progress have left an enduring impact on the city's history. 4 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This "New South" issue 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
This document is a civil action complaint filed in the United States District Court, Northern District of the State of Georgia, Atlanta Division. The plaintiffs, members of the Committee on Appeal for Human Rights, including Benjamin M. Brown, Miss Herschelle S. Sullivan, Charles F. Lyles, and Lonnie C. King Jr.., are taking legal action against the City of Atlanta, Georgia, and other individuals involved in the city's management. The plaintiffs allege that under color of law, the defendants have engaged in racial segregation and discrimination in public facilities owned, operated, maintained, or subsidized by the City of Atlanta. The lawsuit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to abolish racial segregation and discrimination in various public facilities, including parks, swimming pools, tennis courts, and other buildings. 8 pages.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
This document offers an in-depth analysis of the changing dynamics of Negro leadership during the civil rights movement's desegregation crisis in Little Rock, Arkansas. It explores the emergence and interactions of various types of leaders within the racially charged environment, specifically focusing on the shift from traditional "accommodation-type" leadership to more assertive "protest leadership." The study examines the roles played by ministers, businessmen, educators, and other professionals within the Negro community, investigating their responses to the crisis, connections with white leaders, and resulting shifts in race relations. The analysis emphasizes the rise of protest leaders who challenged segregation and mobilized the community. Despite personal rivalries, unity among Negro leaders remained vital during the crisis. The document also highlights the impact of the crisis on interracial communication, noting strained contacts between white and Negro leaders. Overall, the study offers insights into the evolving leadership dynamics and the transformative effects on race relations, contributing to our understanding of the civil rights movement's influence on leadership paradigms. 11 pages.
The essay "Reflection on the Latest Reform of the South" discusses the sit-in demonstrations of the civil rights movement in the American South. The author explores various aspects of the movement, including its nature as a social movement, its principles of non-violence and desegregation, its origins in the Piedmont region, the role of educated Negroes, and the challenges of racial equality. The author highlights the significance of the movement's focus on lunch counter desegregation, the impact on Southern cities, and the emergence of new leaders. They also address potential challenges, such as organizational rivalry, and consider the broader implications of the movement for racial reform in the South and beyond. The essay underscores the importance of understanding the movement within the context of changing Southern dynamics and the complex problem of racial assimilation. It concludes by emphasizing the transformative role of the civil rights struggle amid a period of societal marking time, awaiting new meaningful causes. 5 pages.
A group of COAHR students in a living room.
Atlanta Student Movement Collection
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