International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro North Carolina

Located in the heart of downtown Greensboro, North Carolina, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum stands as a powerful symbol of the struggle for racial equality in the United States. Housed in the historic Woolworth’s building, the museum preserves the site of the Greensboro Sit-Ins, a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement. Opened in 2010, the museum is dedicated to educating the public about the history of civil rights in America, commemorating the brave individuals who fought for justice, and promoting ongoing efforts for equality.

2. The Historical Background: Greensboro Sit-Ins

The history of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum is deeply intertwined with the events of February 1, 1960, when four African American students from North Carolina A&T State University—Ezell Blair Jr. (later known as Jibreel Khazan), David Richmond, Franklin McCain, and Joseph McNeil—sat down at a segregated lunch counter at the Woolworth’s store in Greensboro. Their peaceful protest against racial segregation was met with refusal of service, but their courageous act sparked a wave of sit-ins across the country, becoming a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement.

The Greensboro Sit-Ins inspired similar protests in cities throughout the South, leading to the desegregation of public spaces and accelerating the push for civil rights legislation. The bravery of the “Greensboro Four” and the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance strategies played a crucial role in the broader fight for equality.

3. Founding of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum

The vision to establish a museum at the site of the Greensboro Sit-Ins emerged from the desire to preserve this historic location and ensure that future generations could learn from its legacy. The idea was championed by Melvin “Skip” Alston and Earl Jones, two local leaders and former Guilford County commissioners, who worked tirelessly to bring the project to life.

After years of planning, fundraising, and overcoming various challenges, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum officially opened its doors on February 1, 2010, the 50th anniversary of the Greensboro Sit-Ins. The museum was established as a non-profit organization with a mission to honor the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and to continue the fight for social justice and equality.

4. The Woolworth’s Building: A Historic Landmark

The museum is housed in the former F.W. Woolworth’s building, the original site of the Greensboro Sit-Ins. The building itself is a National Historic Landmark, preserved as a symbol of the struggle against segregation. Great care was taken to restore the Woolworth’s building to its 1960 appearance, including the original lunch counter where the Greensboro Four began their protest.

Walking through the museum, visitors are transported back to that pivotal day in 1960. The restored lunch counter serves as a powerful reminder of the courage it took to challenge the status quo, and it stands as a testament to the impact that ordinary people can have on the course of history.

5. The Mission and Goals of the Museum

The International Civil Rights Center & Museum is dedicated to advancing the understanding of civil rights history and the ongoing quest for equality and justice. Its mission is threefold: to educate visitors about the history of the Civil Rights Movement, to preserve and protect the historic Woolworth’s site and its artifacts, and to promote the values of nonviolence, tolerance, and social justice.

The museum aims to create a space where people from all walks of life can come together to learn, reflect, and engage in dialogue about the challenges of the past and the present. By connecting the history of civil rights struggles to contemporary issues, the museum encourages visitors to consider their own roles in the ongoing fight for equality.

6. Exhibits and Displays: A Journey Through History

The museum features a wide range of exhibits that take visitors on a journey through the history of the Civil Rights Movement, from the early days of slavery to the modern era. The exhibits combine photographs, documents, artifacts, and interactive displays to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience.

One of the museum’s most compelling features is its use of multimedia presentations, which bring the stories of the Civil Rights Movement to life. Visitors can watch videos of historic speeches, listen to oral histories from those who lived through the era, and explore interactive timelines that trace the progression of civil rights in America.

7. The Sit-In Movement Exhibit

A centerpiece of the museum is the Sit-In Movement exhibit, which focuses on the events of February 1, 1960, and the broader sit-in movement that followed. The exhibit includes the original Woolworth’s lunch counter where the Greensboro Four began their protest, along with detailed accounts of their experience and the impact of their actions.

The exhibit also highlights other key sit-ins across the country, showing how the movement quickly spread and how it contributed to the eventual desegregation of public spaces. The stories of the individuals who participated in the sit-ins—students, activists, and ordinary citizens—are told through photographs, personal accounts, and news footage.

8. The Hall of Shame: Confronting Injustice

The Hall of Shame is one of the museum’s most sobering exhibits, confronting visitors with the harsh realities of racial injustice in America. The exhibit chronicles the history of segregation, discrimination, and violence against African Americans, from the era of slavery through the Jim Crow laws and into the 20th century.

This exhibit includes powerful imagery, documents, and artifacts that illustrate the brutality and inhumanity of systemic racism. It also highlights the resilience and resistance of those who fought against these injustices, often at great personal risk. The Hall of Shame serves as a stark reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done.

9. The March on Washington Exhibit

Another significant exhibit at the museum is dedicated to the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, one of the largest and most important civil rights demonstrations in American history. The exhibit explores the planning and execution of the march, the diverse coalition of groups that participated, and the lasting impact of the event.

Visitors can learn about the iconic speeches delivered during the march, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, which became a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement. The exhibit also examines the role of women, labor unions, and religious organizations in the march, highlighting the broad support for civil rights across American society.

10. Educational Programs and Outreach

Education is at the core of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum’s mission. The museum offers a variety of programs designed to engage students, teachers, and the general public in the study of civil rights history and social justice issues. These programs include guided tours, workshops, lectures, and interactive activities that are tailored to different age groups and learning levels.

The museum also provides resources for educators, including curriculum guides, lesson plans, and professional development opportunities. These resources help teachers incorporate civil rights history into their classrooms and foster a deeper understanding of social justice among their students.

11. Special Events and Lectures

The International Civil Rights Center & Museum regularly hosts special events, including guest lectures, panel discussions, film screenings, and commemorative ceremonies. These events bring together scholars, activists, and community members to discuss important topics related to civil rights and social justice.

Notable speakers have included civil rights leaders, historians, authors, and public figures who have contributed to the ongoing dialogue about race and equality in America. These events provide a platform for education, reflection, and action, encouraging participants to engage with contemporary issues in meaningful ways.

12. Digital Resources and Virtual Tours

In addition to its physical exhibits, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum offers a range of digital resources that make its content accessible to a global audience. The museum’s website features virtual tours, online exhibits, and educational materials that allow visitors to explore civil rights history from anywhere in the world.

These digital offerings include interactive timelines, video interviews, and downloadable resources that enhance the learning experience. The museum’s commitment to digital accessibility ensures that its important work reaches a wide and diverse audience, regardless of geographic location.

13. Preservation and Restoration Efforts

The preservation of the historic Woolworth’s building and its artifacts is a key priority for the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. The building itself is a significant piece of American history, and efforts have been made to restore it to its 1960 appearance, ensuring that visitors can experience the space as it was during the Greensboro Sit-Ins.

The museum also works to preserve and protect the many artifacts in its collection, including documents, photographs, and personal items from the Civil Rights Movement. These preservation efforts are essential to maintaining the integrity of the museum’s exhibits and ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from this history.

14. Community Engagement and Partnerships

The International Civil Rights Center & Museum is deeply connected to the Greensboro community and works closely with local organizations, schools, and businesses to promote civil rights education and social justice initiatives. The museum collaborates with a variety of partners to host events, develop programs, and support community-based projects.

These partnerships help to strengthen the museum’s impact and ensure that its work is relevant and responsive to the needs of the community. By engaging with local and national organizations, the museum plays a vital role in fostering a culture of equality and justice in Greensboro and beyond.

15. The Museum Gift Shop and Supporting the Mission

The museum’s gift shop offers a wide range of items that reflect the themes of civil rights and social justice. Visitors can purchase books, DVDs, apparel, and other memorabilia that commemorate the history of the Civil Rights Movement and support the museum’s educational mission.

Proceeds from the gift shop help fund the museum’s programs, exhibits, and preservation efforts. By purchasing items from the shop, visitors can take home a piece of history while also contributing to the museum’s ongoing work to promote equality and justice.

16. Visitor Information: Planning Your Visit

The International Civil Rights Center & Museum is located at 134 South Elm Street in downtown Greensboro, North Carolina. The museum is open to visitors year-round, with hours varying depending on the season. Admission fees apply, with discounts available for students, seniors, and groups.

Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit in advance by checking the museum’s website for the latest information on hours, ticket prices, and special exhibits. Guided tours are available and provide an in-depth experience, with knowledgeable docents leading visitors through the museum’s exhibits and sharing stories from civil rights history.

17. The Museum’s Impact on Greensboro and Beyond

Since its opening in 2010, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum has had a profound impact on Greensboro and the wider community. It has become a key cultural and educational institution in the city, attracting visitors from across the country and around the world.

The museum’s work in preserving civil rights history and promoting social justice has earned it recognition as a leading institution in the field. Its influence extends beyond Greensboro, as it contributes to national and international conversations about race, equality, and human rights.

18. Testimonials and Visitor Experiences

Visitors to the International Civil Rights Center & Museum often describe their experience as powerful, moving, and educational. Many express deep appreciation for the opportunity to learn about the Civil Rights Movement in such an authentic and historic setting. The museum’s exhibits, particularly the preserved lunch counter, have left a lasting impression on countless visitors, inspiring them to reflect on the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead.

Prominent civil rights leaders, scholars, and public figures have also praised the museum for its dedication to preserving history and fostering dialogue about social justice. Their testimonials underscore the importance of the museum’s mission and its impact on visitors from all walks of life.

19. The Future of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum

Looking ahead, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum plans to continue expanding its exhibits, programs, and outreach efforts. The museum is committed to staying at the forefront of civil rights education, with plans for new exhibits that explore contemporary issues and the ongoing fight for equality.

Future initiatives may include expanded digital resources, traveling exhibits, and enhanced educational programs that reach even more people. The museum’s leadership is dedicated to ensuring that the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement remains alive and relevant for future generations.

20. Conclusion: The Legacy of the Greensboro Four and the Continuing Fight for Equality

The International Civil Rights Center & Museum stands as a testament to the courage of the Greensboro Four and the countless others who have fought for civil rights and social justice. It is a place of reflection, education, and inspiration, where visitors can learn about the past, engage with the present, and be motivated to contribute to a more just and equitable future.

The museum’s work is far from over, as the struggle for equality continues in many forms. By preserving the history of the Civil Rights Movement and promoting the values of nonviolence, tolerance, and justice, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum plays a vital role in keeping the spirit of the movement alive and empowering future generations to carry it forward.