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.
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Articles about segregation policies, racial voting demographics, and the 1960 Presidential Election Race between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon the day before November 8th elections. The Atlanta Inquirer contrasts both presidential candidates' platforms. The articles depict two Spelman students, one in her junior year and the other in her senior, holding signs showing their backed candidate (Nixon-Lodge and Kennedy-Johnson). An illustration of a political cartoon shows a man standing in-between two posters; one saying "For President, Kennedy," and the other saying " For President, Nixon." At the bottom of the cartoon, it says, "The Man or The Party?". 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"9 City Vote Trend Shown", November 7, 1960
Date Created
1960-11-07
Description
Articles about segregation policies, racial voting demographics, and the 1960 Presidential Election Race between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon the day before November 8th elections. The Atlanta Inquirer contrasts both presidential candidates' platforms. The articles depict two Spelman students, one in her junior year and the other in her senior, holding signs showing their backed candidate (Nixon-Lodge and Kennedy-Johnson). An illustration of a political cartoon shows a man standing in-between two posters; one saying "For President, Kennedy," and the other saying " For President, Nixon." At the bottom of the cartoon, it says, "The Man or The Party?". 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Race discrimination, Groups and organizations, Political participation, Voting, Presidents
Collection
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
"A Call for Help", March 1961
Date Created
1961-03
Creator
Operation Freedom
Description
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.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, Groups and organizations, Demographic surveys, Race discrimination, Voter registration
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
This report, authored by Wallace Westfeldt, examines the Nashville sit-in movement, which aimed to challenge racial segregation in the city. It highlights the presence of integrated schools, councils, and public facilities but emphasizes the need for integration in restaurants and diners. The report outlines the non-violent approach Fisk University, Tennessee State University, and American Baptist Theological Seminary students use during the sit-ins at downtown variety stores and bus terminals. The movement triggered arrests and raised complex legal and moral questions surrounding racial discrimination and the right to equal access to public facilities. 9 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"A Report On Nashville", circa 1965
Date Created
1963/1967
Author
Westfeldt, Wallace
Description
This report, authored by Wallace Westfeldt, examines the Nashville sit-in movement, which aimed to challenge racial segregation in the city. It highlights the presence of integrated schools, councils, and public facilities but emphasizes the need for integration in restaurants and diners. The report outlines the non-violent approach Fisk University, Tennessee State University, and American Baptist Theological Seminary students use during the sit-ins at downtown variety stores and bus terminals. The movement triggered arrests and raised complex legal and moral questions surrounding racial discrimination and the right to equal access to public facilities. 9 pages.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, African American students
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Student Liaison Committee individual and organization volunteer form. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Adult Student Liaison Committee Volunteer Form, circa 1961
Date Created
1960/1962
Description
Atlanta Student Liaison Committee individual and organization volunteer form. 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Race discrimination, Groups and organizations
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
American Friends Service Committee Fall Bulletin from the Southeastern Regional Office. Bulletin discusses current race relations and progress in school desegregation. 3 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
American Friends Service Committee Fall Bulletin, Fall 1969
Date Created
1969
Description
American Friends Service Committee Fall Bulletin from the Southeastern Regional Office. Bulletin discusses current race relations and progress in school desegregation. 3 pages.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American women, Race discrimination, Groups and organizations, African American student movements
Collection
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
"An Endorsement In Support of Human Dignity", circa 1962
Date Created
1960/1964
Description
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.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Race discrimination, Protest movements
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
This document is an excerpt from the Atlanta Daily World Newspaper, expressing support for human dignity and equal rights for Negro citizens. The article acknowledges the contributions of Negro citizens to the city's progress and highlights their ongoing efforts for economic, civic, and cultural development. It references previous appeals for human rights and nonviolent protests by Atlanta University Center students, including sit-in efforts and a march to the State Capitol. The endorsement calls for equal job opportunities and condemns the unjust treatment of Negroes in employment practices. It also raises questions about the slow progress in achieving equal citizenship rights for Negroes, despite the passage of time since the Emancipation Proclamation. The endorsers emphasize distinguishing between peaceful protesters asserting their rights and those engaging in violence or hatred. The statement concludes with a call for unity, justice, and brotherhood in Atlanta. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"An Endorsement In Support of Human Dignity", May 29, 1960
Date Created
1960-05-29
Creator
Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee
Description
This document is an excerpt from the Atlanta Daily World Newspaper, expressing support for human dignity and equal rights for Negro citizens. The article acknowledges the contributions of Negro citizens to the city's progress and highlights their ongoing efforts for economic, civic, and cultural development. It references previous appeals for human rights and nonviolent protests by Atlanta University Center students, including sit-in efforts and a march to the State Capitol. The endorsement calls for equal job opportunities and condemns the unjust treatment of Negroes in employment practices. It also raises questions about the slow progress in achieving equal citizenship rights for Negroes, despite the passage of time since the Emancipation Proclamation. The endorsers emphasize distinguishing between peaceful protesters asserting their rights and those engaging in violence or hatred. The statement concludes with a call for unity, justice, and brotherhood in Atlanta. 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, Groups and organizations, African American students
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
COAHR 30th Anniversary Event. A speech given by Mary Ann Smith during the 30th Anniversary of Committee on Appeal for Human Rights. Mary Ann Smith discusses her perspective on the movement and discusses how the Civil Rights Movement was able to make significant changes through civil disobedience, voter registration, and economic boycotts. She highlights the struggles that they and others faced during the movement, including fighting against colonialism and learning about the Constitution of the United States. 3 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"Another Time, Another Place, Another Technique", Remarks by Mary Ann Smith, 1990
Date Created
1990
Author
Smith, Mary Ann
Creator
Committee on the Appeal for Human Rights
Description
COAHR 30th Anniversary Event. A speech given by Mary Ann Smith during the 30th Anniversary of Committee on Appeal for Human Rights. Mary Ann Smith discusses her perspective on the movement and discusses how the Civil Rights Movement was able to make significant changes through civil disobedience, voter registration, and economic boycotts. She highlights the struggles that they and others faced during the movement, including fighting against colonialism and learning about the Constitution of the United States. 3 pages.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Speeches
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Article in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee Newsletter in memoriam of Ruby Doris Smith Robinson. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
"Another Warrior Gone", September October 1967
Date Created
1967-10
Creator
Student Nonviolent Coordinating Commitee
Description
Article in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee Newsletter in memoriam of Ruby Doris Smith Robinson. 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Race discrimination, Groups and organizations
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Mary Ann Smith's arrest receipt from the city of Atlanta for participation in a sit-in. 3 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Arrest Receipt, Mary Ann Smith, December 12, 1960
Date Created
1960-12-12
Creator
Atlanta Student Movement
Description
Mary Ann Smith's arrest receipt from the city of Atlanta for participation in a sit-in. 3 pages.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Race discrimination, Groups and organizations
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
A religious-ecumenical service held in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Atlanta Student Movement and hosted by the Atlanta Inquirer. 3 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
ATL Inquirer COAHR 40th Anniversary Ecumenical Service, August 12, 2000
Date Created
2000-08-12
Description
A religious-ecumenical service held in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Atlanta Student Movement and hosted by the Atlanta Inquirer. 3 pages.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, Groups and organizations, Special eventss, African Americans--Religion
Collection
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
The Atlanta Inquirer, April 22, 1961
Date Created
1961-04-22
Description
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.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, Groups and organizations, Dispute Resolution (Law), Labor
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
An article written by D.L. Stanley in the Atlanta Inquirer on April 22, 2000, featuring photos from the 40th anniversary of the Atlanta Student Movement celebration. It states about Lonnie King, president of the National Alumni Association of Morehouse College and Chairman of the Atlanta Student Movement, spoke at the 40th Anniversary Commemoration of "An Appeal for Human Rights" and reminded attendees that there is still work to be done to combat oppression and underrepresentation. He also urged younger generations to continue the legacy of the movement. The celebration, which included workshops and tributes, was attended by a small number of students. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Inquirer COAHR 40th Anniversary, April 22, 2000
Date Created
2000-04-22
Description
An article written by D.L. Stanley in the Atlanta Inquirer on April 22, 2000, featuring photos from the 40th anniversary of the Atlanta Student Movement celebration. It states about Lonnie King, president of the National Alumni Association of Morehouse College and Chairman of the Atlanta Student Movement, spoke at the 40th Anniversary Commemoration of "An Appeal for Human Rights" and reminded attendees that there is still work to be done to combat oppression and underrepresentation. He also urged younger generations to continue the legacy of the movement. The celebration, which included workshops and tributes, was attended by a small number of students. 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, Groups and organizations, African Americans--Georgia--Atlanta
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
A newspaper article was written in the Atlanta Inquirer on April 1st, 2000. The article was an invitation and commemoration to the 40th Anniversary of the Atlanta University Center Student Movement and the Appeal for Human Rights on March 31st,2000. The four-page article summarizes the Appeal for Human Rights and the protest against discrimination in various areas, including education, jobs, housing, voting, healthcare, and entertainment, and states that the practice of racial segregation is incompatible with democracy and Christianity. 4 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Inquirer COAHR 40th Anniversary Invitation Article, April 1, 2000
Date Created
2000-04-01
Description
A newspaper article was written in the Atlanta Inquirer on April 1st, 2000. The article was an invitation and commemoration to the 40th Anniversary of the Atlanta University Center Student Movement and the Appeal for Human Rights on March 31st,2000. The four-page article summarizes the Appeal for Human Rights and the protest against discrimination in various areas, including education, jobs, housing, voting, healthcare, and entertainment, and states that the practice of racial segregation is incompatible with democracy and Christianity. 4 pages.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, Groups and organizations, African American leadership, African American universities and colleges
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The letter is about the success of a reunion celebrating the Student Civil Rights Movement of the 60s, which was well-planned and attended. The letter invites people to attend a formal celebration of the movement on March 31st-April 2, 2000, at Morehouse College campus and to contribute to the founding of a newspaper for the student movement. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Inquirer COAHR 40th Anniversary Invitation, January 28, 2000
Date Created
2000-01-28
Creator
Committee on the Appeal for Human Rights
Description
The letter is about the success of a reunion celebrating the Student Civil Rights Movement of the 60s, which was well-planned and attended. The letter invites people to attend a formal celebration of the movement on March 31st-April 2, 2000, at Morehouse College campus and to contribute to the founding of a newspaper for the student movement. 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, Groups and organizations, Special events
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The Atlanta Inquirer is publishing a special supplement to celebrate the 40th Reunion of the Atlanta Students Civil Rights Movement detailing the young warriors who played an indispensable role in making Atlanta an international city and a Mecca for Blacks. Several events are planned for Friday evening, August 4, including a Grand Reunion. Participants are requested to share their memories, photos, and a short bio. The Reunion Celebration will begin on Friday, March 31, and continue through Sunday, April 2, and culminating activities celebrating the founding of The Atlanta Inquirer will begin in April and continue to October. 2 pages.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Inquirer Correspondence From John Smith to "Trailblazer", February 29, 2000
Date Created
2000-02-29
Description
The Atlanta Inquirer is publishing a special supplement to celebrate the 40th Reunion of the Atlanta Students Civil Rights Movement detailing the young warriors who played an indispensable role in making Atlanta an international city and a Mecca for Blacks. Several events are planned for Friday evening, August 4, including a Grand Reunion. Participants are requested to share their memories, photos, and a short bio. The Reunion Celebration will begin on Friday, March 31, and continue through Sunday, April 2, and culminating activities celebrating the founding of The Atlanta Inquirer will begin in April and continue to October. 2 pages.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American student movements, Groups and organizations, Special events
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
These articles in the Atlanta Inquirer are about segregation and race relations in the city. On the second page of the Atlanta Inquirer, each piece pertains to the Civil Rights Movement: "Looking the Other Way" by M. Carl Holman, "Separate But Not Equal" by Jesse O. Thomas, "Let Freedom Ring" by Lonnie King, and "The Bible Speaks" by Rev. John A. Middleton. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Inquirer, December 17, 1960
Date Created
1960-12-17
Description
These articles in the Atlanta Inquirer are about segregation and race relations in the city. On the second page of the Atlanta Inquirer, each piece pertains to the Civil Rights Movement: "Looking the Other Way" by M. Carl Holman, "Separate But Not Equal" by Jesse O. Thomas, "Let Freedom Ring" by Lonnie King, and "The Bible Speaks" by Rev. John A. Middleton. 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Race discrimination, Groups and organizations, African American newspapers
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
The Christmas Eve edition of the Atlanta Inquirer was published on December 24th, 1960. The articles in the Atlanta Inquirer about community meetings against segregation at church, the "economic withdrawal of Negro trade and Negro money" as an effective tool in ending segregation, and the funding gap in Black and White schools. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Inquirer, December 24, 1960
Date Created
1960-12-24
Description
The Christmas Eve edition of the Atlanta Inquirer was published on December 24th, 1960. The articles in the Atlanta Inquirer about community meetings against segregation at church, the "economic withdrawal of Negro trade and Negro money" as an effective tool in ending segregation, and the funding gap in Black and White schools. 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Race discrimination, Groups and organizations, African American newspapers
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
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
Atlanta Inquirer, December 30, 1961
Date Created
1961-12-30
Description
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.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, Race discrimination, African American newspapers
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Article in the Atlanta Inquirer about Georgia's increasing school dropout rates and a letter to the editor about the pressure and strain on students integrating schools. 1 page.
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism
Atlanta Inquirer, December 9, 1960
Date Created
1960-12-09
Description
Article in the Atlanta Inquirer about Georgia's increasing school dropout rates and a letter to the editor about the pressure and strain on students integrating schools. 1 page.
Subject
African Americans--Civil rights, African American pioneers, African American student movements, African Americans--Education
Collection
Mary Ann Smith Wilson, Ruby Doris Smith Robinson Collection on Student Activism