The Mary Ann Smith Wilson - Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism spans the dates 1948-2008 with the bulk of the material dated 1960-1967. The collection documents both Ruby Doris Smith Robinson's and Mary Ann Smith Wilson's participation in the civil rights movement and the organizations with which they were affiliated. Although the collection documents both sisters' activities, the bulk of the collection reflects Ruby Doris Smith Robinson’s activism activities in the civil rights movement. Also included in the collection are photographs, correspondences, news articles, programs, reports, and flyers.

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 7, 2023

Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism

The Mary Ann Smith Wilson - Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism spans the dates 1948-2008 with the bulk of the material dated 1960-1967. The collection documents both Ruby Doris Smith Robinson's and Mary Ann Smith Wilson's participation in the civil rights movement and the organizations with which they were affiliated. Although the collection documents both sisters' activities, the bulk of the collection reflects Ruby Doris Smith Robinson’s activism activities in the civil rights movement. Also included in the collection are photographs, correspondences, news articles, programs, reports, and flyers.

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.

The articles in the Atlanta Inquirer have themes of housing in Georgia and the Atlanta Metro Area, the Christmas season, and integration.  Articles published in the Atlanta Inquirer are  "When the Lights Go On  Again, M. Carl Holman's " 'Fine Singing' From Lockheed," What Did We Do to Support A Strong Housing Order?" accompanied by a political cartoon, "Letters To the Editor," and "If We are Ready". 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
An article written one day before Christmas Eve in the Atlanta Inquirer by M. Carl Holman called "The Hopes and Fears of All the Years.."  The article is about the dichotomy of the civil rights movement: proponents of the civil rights protest vs. critics of the civil rights protest. Holman narrates about a Lady and her opposition to the protest during the Christmas Holiday Season. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
This is a list of cities that have had demonstrations against lunch counter-discrimination. The following states are listed: Alabama, North Carolina, Arkansas, South Carolina, Florida, Tennessee, Georgia, Texas, Louisiana, and Virginia--totaling 33 cities. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"Freedom Rides Vindicated, ICC Rules on Bus Terminals" article in the Atlanta Inquirer about a ruling on the Interstate Commerce Commission prohibiting discrimination on interstate buses and terminal facilities. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Letter from Ruby Doris Smith in Hinds County Jail, Jackson, Mississippi, to her mother. Smith was in jail for taking part in the Freedom Rides. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Article in the Atlanta Inquirer, "Jailed Spelman Coed Writes Atlanta Sit-ins" about Ruby Doris Smith's letter to the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee from Hinds County Jail in Jackson, Mississippi. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
To her mother, the letter is from Ruby Doris Smith in Hinds County Jail, Jackson, Mississippi. Smith was in jail for taking part in the Freedom Rides. 2 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Inquirer article about four Atlanta student leaders who filed a desegregation suit against the City of Atlanta to gain equal access to Atlanta's parks, tennis courts, and City Auditorium. Four student leaders from Atlanta filed a desegregation lawsuit in U.S. District Court on May 17, seeking to abolish racial segregation in all public facilities owned, operated, maintained, or subsidized by the City of Atlanta, Georgia. The students cited refusals of equal use of Atlanta�s parks, tennis courts, and the Municipal Auditorium as the basis for their lawsuit. They filed the suit without an attorney and paid fees for warrants to be served on the defendants. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
This a newspaper clipping from The Atlanta Journal dated Wednesday, May 17th, 1961. The headline of this newspaper issue is "Negro Leaders Sue In US. Court For Complete Integration." The document is cut out of an article written by Margaret Shannon. In the article, Shannon writes about Members of the Committee on Appeal for Human Rights have filed a lawsuit in federal court in Atlanta, seeking desegregation of all city facilities, including parks, swimming pools, tennis courts, and the Municipal Auditorium. While the committee chairman stated that the lawsuit does not necessarily mean an end to other forms of protest, they hope to achieve immediate injunctions against ongoing discrimination through legal means. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
COAHR civil action case against the City of Atlanta. This is a summary of a legal case in which the plaintiffs seek to abolish racial segregation and discrimination in every public facility operated by the City of Atlanta, including parks, swimming pools, tennis courts, and municipal buildings. The plaintiffs represent an estimated 230,000 citizens of Atlanta who are members of the Negro race. The defendants include the City of Atlanta, the Director of Recreation for the City, the General Manager of the Department of Parks, and a judge of the Municipal Court. The lawsuit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to prohibit racial discrimination and segregation under color of law. 8 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The front page of The Atlanta Inquirer is dated May 13th, 1961. The headline of the newspaper issue is "Georgia Tech Accepts 3 Negroes". 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Speaking on behalf of CORE, James Farmer urges immediate action to end segregation in bus, train, and airline terminals, emphasizing the need for sacrifices, deliberate decision-making, and a spirit of reconciliation. CORE plans additional Freedom Rides and requests applications from individuals willing to engage in nonviolent direct action. Accompanied with the letter are two blue-colored applications for CORE and Freedom Rides. 6 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The front page of The Atlanta Inquirer is dated April 22nd, 1961. The newspaper issue features seven front-page articles:: "Attorney General Tells Inquirer: SIT-INS NOT BAR TO FEDERAL JOBS," "Pool Creek Pigeonholed Again," "Transit Co. Preps Negro Drivers," "Negro Lawyers To Hear Sec. of State Rusk At Biltmore," "Symposium At Clark College Honors Faculty Author," "Lockheed Council Reports Job Forms Pouring In," and "Poole Creek Civic League Prest Ousted." 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"Jailed In," written by Thomas Gaither, discusses his experience of being jailed for 30 days with eight other students because of their sit-in protest in Rock-Hill, South Carolina. Gaither talks about the events leading to the protest in Rock Hill, South Carolina, preceded by a protest in Greensboro, North Carolina, in February 1960. Afterward, he describes the experience of being arrested and tried in South Carolina. 8 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
In this letter, James R. Robinson seeks support to sustain and advance the organization's program of action, emphasizing the progress made over the past twenty years, the ongoing struggles for integration, and the need for financial contributions. The letter appeals for support and urges them to make a generous contribution to help achieve a genuine Brotherhood in America. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) issued a protest telegram to the Governor of Mississippi, Ross Barnett, expressing condemnation of the treatment of African American citizens in Jackson, Mississippi. The telegram criticized the "barbarous and uncivil display" exhibited by law enforcement officials during a peaceful protest outside the courthouse. The protest aimed to support nine African American college students who had been jailed for seeking service in a public library. SNCC urged Governor Barnett to take decisive action to end the unjust treatment of Mississippi's African American population. Additionally, the SNCC commended the students of Tougaloo College for their efforts against racial segregation in Jackson and praised their dedication, nonviolent spirit, courage, and vision of a free society. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Correspondence from Warren Scott, the Episcopal Chaplain at the Atlanta University Center, inviting Mary Ann Smith to dinner at the Canterbury House. The dinner guests are "members of the Canterbury Association who were in jail, some student movement leaders, and others." 2 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Correspondence from William H. Borders and C.M. Lowe to Mary Ann Smith notifying her of a meeting for the Atlanta Student Adult Liaison. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Stokely Carmichael, Chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), issued a statement condemning the bombing and burning of Black churches in the American South. Carmichael argues that these acts of violence are traditional methods employed by white racists to express their disdain and hatred towards African Americans who dare to protest against their inhumane treatment and degradation. He criticizes the lack of response from federal, state, and local authorities and the FBI, who fail to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice. Carmichael sees this as a reflection of white America's approval and collaboration in perpetuating racism. He highlights recent church bombings in Lowndes County, Alabama, where Viola Liuzzo and Jonathan Daniels were murdered, and emphasizes the routine investigations conducted by authorities that yield no substantial results. Carmichael draws parallels between the current state of affairs and the Reconstruction era, pointing out the ousting of Adam Clayton Powell from Congress as evidence of continued oppression. He suggests that Black people increasingly recognize the need to fight back against the long history of genocide, lynchings, bombings, and burnings, asserting that these acts will only strengthen their resolve for justice. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
This document is a preliminary draft announcement from the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) regarding the Freedom Ride, 1961. The Freedom Ride is a planned initiative to achieve complete integration of bus service and accommodations in the Deep South. It will involve an interracial group of highly trained and dedicated CORE members who will challenge Jim Crow segregation wherever encountered during their journey from Washington, D.C. to New Orleans. The document provides information on the purpose, itinerary, participant requirements, and contact details for those interested in joining the project. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The Ann Arbor Direct Action Committee and Detroit CORE are organizing national demonstrations to pressure the Kresge Company to integrate their Southern lunch counters to achieve 100% integration and write to the President of Kresge in support of complete integration, emphasizing the need for change in the Deep South and the potential influence on other chains. The item includes a list of cities with lunch counters that opened around February 1st, 1960. The Crisis in Western Tennessee is summarized, highlighting the importance of long-term solutions through Operation Freedom and the need for relief contributions to support local organizations addressing the crisis. 4 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
COAHR meeting notes about student demonstrations and planning. 11 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"Students Prefer Jail-Ins to Bail-Outs" newspaper article in the Southern Patriot about the southern student movement, highlighting the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee as leaders in the movement. 2 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The newspaper CORE-LATOR, published in March 1961, highlights the ongoing efforts to fight racial discrimination. The sit-in movement marked its first anniversary, leading to numerous jail-ins of students who refused to pay fines or accept bail for demonstrating against segregated facilities. The newspaper also reports on other activities, such as picketing discriminatory businesses. In summary, the newspaper emphasizes the importance of direct nonviolent methods in abolishing racial discrimination. 4 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
In Fayette and Haywood counties in Tennessee, African American families faced evictions and boycotts after registering to vote. The evictees set up a tent city called "Freedom Village" as they refused to leave their homes. Operation Freedom, a nationwide initiative, was established to provide financial assistance, including loans and gifts, to support those affected by the evictions and boycotts. 4 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Correspondence from Ruby Doris Smith to her sister Mary Ann Smith from York County Jail. 5 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The CORE National Council pledges full support to Americans seeking equality and nonviolent direct action to desegregate lunch counters in various drug chain stores and restaurants. They recommend continuing the economic boycott against segregated chain store lunch counters in the deep South until significant progress is made while also urging the development of diverse methods, such as newspaper ads and promotional items, to augment the boycott. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
News article from the Atlanta Inquirer about Ruby D. Smith and other student protestors serving jail time in South Carolina. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Image of Ruby D. Smith with two others arrested in Jackson, Mississippi for participating in a Freedom Ride. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Articles in the Atlanta Inquirer about the Atlanta Student Movement, including the jail not bail demonstration and Ruby Doris Smith's arrest and jailing. 2 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
In February 1961, a memo from Richard Haley, Field Secretary of CORE (Congress of Racial Equality), discussed the repressive treatments of African Americans in Fayette and Haywood Counties, Tennessee, and referred to Robert Boyd's investigation of these counties. The memo highlighted the denial of credit, evictions, voter suppression, and restrictions on gasoline purchases faced by registered Black farmers and outlined efforts by CORE and other organizations to assist, including supplies and funds for land-sharing and a loan fund. 4 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
This flash update from the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) provides information about recent arrests and convictions of SNCC members in various locations. In Rock Hill, South Carolina, four SNCC members were convicted of trespassing in Good's Drug Store and chose to serve a 30-day jail sentence. In Lynchburg, Virginia, six college students, including two African Americans, pleaded guilty to violating Virginia's anti-trespass law and were sentenced to 30 days. In Atlanta, Georgia, over 70 Atlanta University students were arrested for continued sit-in activities, refusing to accept the bond and indicating their intention to remain in jail. The students were charged with violating Georgia's anti-trespass law. A partial list of arrested students is included, with a note indicating that the list is incomplete due to recent arrests. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The article "Doing What Comes Naturally," by  Holman, was published in the Atlanta Inquirer on February 4th, 1941. Holman criticized Wilma Rudolph for lacking cordiality during her visit to Atlanta. The writer suggested that some Negro athletes use a masquerade when speaking on social issues. However, others argue that athletes should not be limited in expressing their opinions, and Wilma Rudolph was regarded as genuine and gracious by most people she met in Atlanta. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
This document is in commemoration, titled "February 1st Freedom Day Action",  of the first sit-in protest on February 1st, 1960. The document celebrates successful sit-in protests across the United States because of the large-scale participation from students. The document highlights the events before and after February 1st. As well the document mentions the Sit-In protest at theaters across the country. 3 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Committee on the Appeal for Human Rights meeting notes discussing recent movement activities and jailing. Note to meet again within two weeks. 3 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
These articles in the Atlanta Inquirer are about Black student admission into the University of Georgia, the Butler Street YMCA anniversary, racial tensions, and the need to include more details on the student movement efforts and results in other news platforms such as the local public radios. Titles of articles in this issue of Atlanta Inquirer are  "Seventy-Seven Years of Service,"   Holman's "The Man with The Bag," H. Julian Bond's "Perspectives," "One Worth A Thousand," "DeKalb County Would Pay For Racial Strife," and Rev. Middletown with Dr. Thomas J. Pugh's "The Bible Speaks". 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
These articles in the Atlanta Inquirer are about political influence on race discrimination related to recent local events and the inaugural ball.  Articles featured in this issue are "Signs Of The Times,"  Holman's "The Inquirer Speaks," "Black Week." accompanied by a political cartoon, and "Letters The Editor". 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
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Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"We Are Climbing Freedom's Ladder to Dignity and Brotherhood in '61" flyer from COAHR and the Student Liaison Committee noting boycotting and the non violent desegregation movement. A call to action to "refuse to pay to be segregated" and to share the cause is included. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The first memo discusses the distribution of supplies, observations on the situation in Fayette and Haywood Counties, and the need for support in terms of clothing and food. The second memo provides an overview of CORE's activities, contributions from various groups, and the physical situation in the counties, emphasizing the need for crop loans and financial aid. 2 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Sisters Mary, Ruby, and Catherine Smith in California.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Ruby Doris Smith Robinson lays on the floor and writes on a notepad.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Ruby D. Smith, wearing a blue dress, siting and smiling at a dinner.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Ruby D. Smith holds signs with other college students [poor original image quality].
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Ruby D. Smith talks with other college students [poor original image quality].
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
An excerpt from a newspaper advertisement in support of human dignity written by the Atlanta Committee for Cooperative Action. The letter commends the peaceful efforts of Atlanta University Center students in their pursuit of equal treatment as citizens and human beings. The students' activities included an appeal for human rights, requests for food service, picketing, and a march to the State Capitol. The committee endorses the students' objectives and calls upon all individuals in public office, business, education, and civic life to work towards a community that values brotherhood and Christian justice for all. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
This booklet discusses Atlanta's peaceful, non-violent protests against segregation, have been met with threats, abuse, and jail time for both students and Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Despite agreeing to a 30-day truce period, the downtown merchants have refused to desegregate, so citizens were asked to stay out of the downtown shopping area until all customers are granted the same treatment. 3 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Three women wear signs in protest saying, "Don't Buy Segregation" and "Don't Buy Here"  during demonstration in Atlanta.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
A man and a woman sit at an otherwise empty lunch counter.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Men and women stand outside of a county jail and sign a document.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism