About International civil rights center & museum
The International Civil Rights Center & Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of civil rights in America. Located in Greensboro, North Carolina, this museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of those who fought for equality and justice during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history.
The museum's origins can be traced back to February 1st, 1960 when four African American college students from North Carolina A&T University sat down at a whites-only lunch counter at Woolworth's department store in downtown Greensboro. The A&T Four - Ezell Blair Jr., David Richmond, Franklin McCain, and Joseph McNeil - were refused service but refused to leave. Their peaceful protest sparked a wave of sit-ins across the country and helped galvanize the civil rights movement.
Today, visitors to the International Civil Rights Center & Museum can experience what it was like to be part of that historic moment through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays. The museum occupies the former Woolworth's building where the sit-in took place and has been meticulously restored to its original appearance.
One of the highlights of any visit is sitting at one of the original lunch counter stools where visitors can listen to audio recordings from that day as well as personal accounts from those who participated in or witnessed these events firsthand. Other exhibits include displays on segregation laws, voting rights struggles, and other key moments in civil rights history.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, The International Civil Rights Center & Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year that explore different aspects of civil rights history or contemporary issues related to social justice.
The museum also offers educational programs for students ranging from elementary school through college level. These programs are designed not only to teach about past struggles but also inspire young people today to become active participants in creating a more just society.
Overall, The International Civil Rights Center & Museum is an essential destination for anyone interested in learning about America's civil rights history. Its powerful exhibits and educational programs make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in our society.