40th Anniversary Commemoration, March 31, 2000

This document outlines the details of the 40th anniversary commemoration held from March 31 to May 12, 2000, at the Atlanta University Center's Robert W. Woodruff Library in the Virginia Lacy Jones Exhibition Hall. The event featured various activities, including a press conference, dedication of a historical marker at CAU Trevor Arnett Quadrangle on March 31 at 3:00 pm, a workshop at Virginia Lacy Jones Exhibition Hall on April 1 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and an ecumenical service at King Chapel, Morehouse College on April 2 at 10:30 am. The commemoration honored the significant role of students from Atlanta University, the Interdenominational Theological Center, Clark, Morehouse, Morris Brown, and Spelman Colleges in the civil rights movement. Their actions, including sit-ins, kneel-ins, picket lines, and "freedom rides", contributed to the acceleration of racial desegregation and brought about essential changes in Atlanta, the South, and the nation. The event aimed to inspire the present generation of students and community leaders to reflect on current issues and take action for positive change, echoing the spirit of the historical Appeal for Human Rights.