Posts tagged with "american history"

Nikki Giovanni: A Legacy of Poetry, Power, and Social Justice in America

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“If now isn’t a good time for the truth, I don’t see when we’ll get to it.” ― Nikki Giovanni

Nikki Giovanni passed away quietly on December 9, 2024 at the age of 81 after fighting loudly for the historically oppressed and stitching together the tapestry of our humanity. Nikki Giovanni, a celebrated poet, writer, and activist, has left an indelible mark on American culture and literature. Her powerful words have resonated with readers for decades, addressing themes of social justice, identity, and the human experience. Giovanni’s unique voice and perspective have made her a beloved figure, particularly within the Black community.

In the wake of her passing, it seems as the world can now catch up to Nikki Giovanni’s earthly timeline to delve into her revolutionary life and work, exploring some of her most memorable teachings and the profound impact of her literary contributions. Through her poetry and prose, Giovanni has challenged societal norms, inspired generations of writers, and given voice to the marginalized. Her words continue to be a source of inspiration and empowerment, reminding us of the power of language and the importance of speaking truth to power.

“Why would there be a destination when life itself is a journey? You go not to get there but to be there.” ― Nikki Giovanni, Chasing Utopia: A Hybrid

Giovanni’s Revolutionary Work:

  • Social Justice and Equality: Giovanni’s work took on issues of racial inequality, discrimination, and the struggle for civil rights.
  • Identity and Self-Discovery: Her poems explore themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the complexities of navigating a multi-faceted world.
  • Love and Relationships: Giovanni’s writing delves into the intricacies of love, family, and human connection.
  • The Power of Language: Her work celebrates the transformative power of language and its ability to inspire change.

    Giovanni’s Challenge of Societal Norms Inspired Social Change:

    • Addressing Social Justice and Equality: Her poems and writings consistently confront issues of racial inequality, discrimination, and the struggle for civil rights. By highlighting these injustices, she forces readers to acknowledge and question the status quo.
    • Centering Identity and Self-Discovery: Giovanni’s exploration of themes of identity, particularly Black identity, and self-acceptance encourages individuals to embrace their authentic selves and challenge societal expectations.
    • Celebrating the Power of Language: Her work demonstrates the transformative power of language to inspire change, giving voice to the marginalized and challenging oppressive narratives.

    Through her powerful words and unwavering commitment to social justice, Giovanni’s work motivates readers to actively engage in the fight for a more equitable and inclusive American society.

    “We’ve got to live in the real world. If we don’t like the world we’re living in, change it. And if we can’t change it, we change ourselves. We can do something.” ― Nikki Giovanni

    Nikki Giovanni’s work holds significant importance within the Black community due to several factors:

    • Representation and Voice: Giovanni’s poems and writings often center Black experiences, providing a powerful representation of Black life, struggles, and triumphs. Her work gives voice to the experiences and perspectives of Black individuals, fostering a sense of validation and empowerment within the community.
    • Social Justice Advocacy: Giovanni’s unwavering commitment to social justice and equality resonates deeply with the Black community’s ongoing fight for civil rights. Her work serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for activism and change.
    • Cultural Affirmation: Through her exploration of Black identity, love, and relationships, Giovanni’s work celebrates Black culture and heritage, fostering a sense of pride and self-affirmation within the community.
    • Literary Inspiration: Giovanni’s unique voice and literary contributions have paved the way for generations of Black writers, inspiring them to express their own experiences and perspectives through poetry and prose.

    Overall, Nikki Giovanni’s work holds a place of profound significance in American history and within the Black community, serving as a source of inspiration, empowerment, and cultural affirmation. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the power of language and the importance of fighting for justice and equality. Her legacy is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to social justice and a shared humanity. Nikki Giovanni leaves behind an American blueprint of using our voices to create a more just and equitable world.

    Notable Quotes by Nikki Giovanni:

    • “Black love is Black wealth.”
    • “We must love each other and support each other. We have nothing to lose but our chains.”
    • “I am a Black woman, and I am proud.”

    Nikki Giovanni Speaks:

    Malcolm X’s Family Sues US Government: A Historic Lawsuit and its Significance

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    A Historic Lawsuit

    In a landmark legal action, the family of Malcolm X has filed a $100 million lawsuit against the FBI, CIA, and the New York Police Department. They allege that these agencies played a role in the assassination of the iconic civil rights leader in 1965. This lawsuit is unprecedented, not only for the sum sought but also for the direct accusations against the highest levels of law enforcement and intelligence agencies in the United States. It brings renewed attention to the circumstances surrounding Malcolm X’s death and raises questions about the government’s potential involvement in silencing a prominent voice for Black empowerment.

    Malcolm X: A Towering Figure in American History

    To understand the gravity of this lawsuit, it’s essential to recognize the significance of Malcolm X in American history and culture. Born Malcolm Little, he transformed into a powerful advocate for Black self-determination and a fierce critic of systemic racism. His eloquence, charisma, and unwavering commitment to justice made him a central figure in the Civil Rights Movement, even as his views often diverged from those of more integrationist leaders.

    Malcolm X’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. He challenged the prevailing narrative of nonviolence and advocated for Black pride and self-defense. His autobiography, co-authored with Alex Haley, remains a seminal work in American literature, offering a searing account of his life and a profound critique of American society. Today, his ideas continue to inspire activists and thinkers around the world.

    circa 1965: Black nationalist and Muslim leader Malcolm X (1925 – 1965) talking to a woman inside Temple 7, a Halal restaurant patronized by black Muslims and situated on Lenox Avenue and 116th Street, Harlem, New York. (Photo by Richard Saunders/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

    Background on Malcolm X’s Life and Assassination

    Malcolm X’s life was marked by both struggle and triumph. He rose from a troubled youth to become a minister in the Nation of Islam, where he gained national prominence. However, his break with the Nation of Islam and his subsequent embrace of Sunni Islam led to increased threats against his life. His assassination in 1965, at the age of 39, sent shockwaves through the nation and left many questions unanswered.

    The official narrative surrounding his assassination has always been shrouded in controversy. While three men were convicted, doubts have persisted about the full extent of the plot and whether others were involved. The lawsuit filed by Malcolm X’s family seeks to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.

    Ilyasah Shabazz, seen with her father the year before his death

    Key Takeaways

    • This lawsuit is a historic moment in the ongoing quest for justice for Malcolm X.
    • It forces a reexamination of the circumstances surrounding his assassination and the potential complicity of government agencies.
    • It highlights the enduring legacy of Malcolm X and his continued relevance to contemporary struggles for racial equality.
    • It serves as a reminder of the importance of truth-telling and accountability, even decades after a crime has been committed.

    A bust sculpture of Malcolm X was unveiled at his May 2024 induction into the Nebraska Hall of Fame. The art was designed by Lincoln artist Nathan Murray, who is shown in the photo with Malcolm X’s daughter Ilyasah Shabazz (right of the bust) and JoAnna LeFlore-Ejike, executive director of the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation. The bust’s permanent spot is in a hallway of the State Capitol, with other Hall of Fame busts. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)

    The outcome of this lawsuit remains to be seen, but its impact is already undeniable. It has reignited a national conversation about Malcolm X, his legacy, and the ongoing fight for racial justice in America. 

    A Coup d’État in Wilmington: How a Thriving Black Community Was Destroyed by a White Mob OTD in 1898

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    The Wilmington Massacre of 1898 stands as a stark reminder of the racial violence and injustice that has shaped American history. This horrific event, in which a white mob overthrew a legitimately elected biracial government in Wilmington, North Carolina, and killed dozens, if not hundreds, of Black residents, is a chilling example of the lengths to which white supremacy has been enforced in this country.

    The Significance of the Wilmington Massacre

    The Wilmington Massacre was not an isolated incident. It was part of a larger pattern of racial violence and oppression that has plagued the United States since its founding. This event, however, was unique in its brazenness and its direct attack on democracy. The white supremacists who carried out the massacre were not content to simply disenfranchise Black voters; they sought to completely eliminate Black political power and restore white rule.

    The massacre’s legacy continues to shape American culture today. The racial tensions and inequalities that fueled the violence in Wilmington are still present in our society. The ongoing demand for reparations for the descendants of enslaved people and victims of racial violence is a direct result of the historical injustices that culminated in events like the Wilmington Massacre.

    Lessons Learned and the Pursuit of the “America Yet to Be”

    The Wilmington Massacre serves as a painful lesson about the dangers of white supremacy and the fragility of democracy. It reminds us that the fight for racial justice is far from over. As Langston Hughes wrote in his famous poem, “Let America Be America Again,” we are still striving to create an America that lives up to its ideals of freedom, equality, and justice for all.

    The ongoing pursuit of this “America yet to be” requires a commitment to truth-telling and reconciliation. We must acknowledge the sins of our past, including the Wilmington Massacre, and work to repair the damage that has been done. This means supporting reparations initiatives, investing in communities of color, and dismantling systemic racism in all its forms. 

    Takeaways

    • The Wilmington Massacre was a turning point in American history, marking a violent backlash against Reconstruction and the brief period of Black political power that followed the Civil War.
    • The massacre’s legacy continues to shape American culture and politics today.
    • The demand for reparations is a direct response to the historical injustices that culminated in events like the Wilmington Massacre.
    • We must learn from the lessons of the past and work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.
    • The pursuit of the “America yet to be” is an ongoing struggle that requires the commitment and dedication of all Americans.

    By remembering the Wilmington Massacre and other atrocities of our past, we can honor the victims and work towards a future where such violence and injustice are never repeated.

    The Martyrdom of Elijah Lovejoy: A Turning Point for Freedom of the Press and Abolitionism

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    On November 7, 1837, a pro-slavery mob in Alton, Illinois, murdered Elijah Parish Lovejoy, an abolitionist newspaper editor. This act of violence sent shockwaves through the nation, marking a turning point in the fight against slavery and the struggle for freedom of the press. Lovejoy’s unwavering commitment to his principles, even in the face of death, cemented his legacy as a martyr for these causes.

    Lovejoy’s Tireless Advocacy

    Lovejoy’s journey as an abolitionist was marked by relentless persecution. He faced repeated attacks and destruction of his printing presses due to his vocal opposition to slavery and his condemnation of racial violence. Despite these threats, Lovejoy remained resolute, declaring his right to speak and publish freely. His defiance in the face of danger made him a symbol of resistance against the oppressive forces of slavery.

    The Alton Tragedy and Its Aftermath

    The events leading to Lovejoy’s assassination highlight the deep divisions and tensions that plagued the nation in the antebellum era. The violence inflicted upon him underscored the lengths to which pro-slavery forces would go to silence dissent. However, Lovejoy’s death did not extinguish the flames of abolitionism. Instead, it ignited a firestorm of outrage and galvanized the movement. 

    Shaping American Culture, Politics, and Activism

    Lovejoy’s martyrdom had a profound impact on American society:

    • Freedom of the Press: His death served as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting free speech and a free press, even when those ideas are unpopular or controversial.
    • Abolitionist Movement: Lovejoy’s sacrifice fueled the abolitionist cause, inspiring others like John Brown to dedicate their lives to ending slavery.
    • Political Discourse: The controversy surrounding Lovejoy’s murder intensified the national debate over slavery, pushing the issue further into the political arena.

    Lessons for Future Generations

    Lovejoy’s legacy continues to inspire those who fight for justice and equality. His courage and unwavering commitment to his principles offer valuable lessons for future generations of freedom fighters:

    • The Power of Conviction: Lovejoy’s steadfast belief in the cause of abolition, even in the face of grave danger, demonstrates the power of conviction and the importance of standing up for what is right.
    • The Importance of Free Speech: His defense of free speech and a free press underscores their essential role in a democratic society.
    • The Price of Freedom: Lovejoy’s ultimate sacrifice reminds us that the fight for freedom and justice often comes at a great cost.

    Memorial card for Reverend Elijah Parish Lovejoy with silhouette. Missouri History Museum Photograph and Prints collections.

    Elijah Lovejoy’s story is a testament to the enduring power of ideas and the courage of individuals who dare to challenge injustice. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who continue to strive for a more just and equitable world.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Elijah Lovejoy’s assassination was a turning point in the fight for freedom of the press and the abolition of slavery.
    • His unwavering commitment to his principles, even in the face of death, made him a powerful symbol of resistance.
    • Lovejoy’s martyrdom inspired and galvanized the abolitionist movement, contributing to the eventual end of slavery in the United States.
    • His legacy continues to inspire those who fight for justice and equality around the world.

    Let us remember Elijah Lovejoy as a champion of freedom and a martyr for the cause of justice. His story reminds us that the fight for a better world requires courage, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to the principles of liberty and equality.

    Poll Taxes: A Dark Chapter in American Voting Rights

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    The Library of Congress’s Rosa Parks Papers collection contains a stark reminder of the struggle for voting rights in America: a receipt for the poll tax Rosa Parks paid in Alabama in 1956. This seemingly mundane document represents a potent symbol of the Jim Crow-era’s systemic disenfranchisement of African Americans.

    Poll Taxes as a Tool of Voter Suppression

    Poll taxes were a discriminatory measure implemented in many Southern states after Reconstruction. These taxes, ostensibly a revenue-generating tool, were strategically used to suppress the voting rights of African Americans, who were disproportionately poor. By imposing a financial barrier to voting, poll taxes effectively prevented countless Black citizens from participating in the democratic process.

    The Impact on African Americans

    The impact of poll taxes on African Americans was profound. It denied them their fundamental right to vote, silencing their voices and perpetuating their marginalization in society. This disenfranchisement had far-reaching consequences, limiting their ability to elect representatives who would advocate for their interests and address the systemic inequalities they faced.

    The Evolution of Voting Rights

    The fight against poll taxes was a long and arduous one. It took decades of activism, legal challenges, and legislative action to dismantle this discriminatory practice. The 24th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1964, finally abolished poll taxes in federal elections. However, the struggle for full voting rights continued, with subsequent legislation and court decisions further expanding and protecting the franchise.

    Lessons Learned

    The history of poll taxes in America serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding voting rights for all citizens. It underscores the need for constant vigilance against any attempts to disenfranchise or suppress the vote. The lessons learned from this dark chapter in American history continue to inform our understanding of the importance of equal access to the ballot box and the ongoing fight for a truly inclusive democracy.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Poll taxes were a discriminatory tool used to suppress the voting rights of African Americans.
    • The impact of poll taxes was profound, limiting the political power and representation of Black communities.
    • The abolition of poll taxes was a significant victory for voting rights, but the struggle for full enfranchisement continues.
    • Safeguarding voting rights requires constant vigilance and a commitment to protecting the fundamental principles of democracy.

    By reflecting on the history of poll taxes on election day, and the struggles of those who fought for voting rights, we can better appreciate the value of “one man – one vote” and work towards a more just and equitable society for all.

    Syracuse, NY: A City at the Heart of Black History and the Fight for Equality

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    “For the order and decorum which may prevail here, gentlemen, I look to you. With your assistance and support we shall have harmony, which is essential to our deliberations. The cause which we come here to promote is sacred. Nowhere, in the ‘wide, wide world,’ can men be found coupled with a cause of greater dignity and importance than that which brings us here. We are here to promote the freedom, progress, elevation, and perfect enfranchisement, of the entire colored people of the United States; to show that, though slaves, we are not contented slaves, but that, like all other progressive races of me, we are resolved to advance in the scale of knowledge, worth, and civilization, and claim our rights as men among men. – Frederick Douglas

    Syracuse, New York, a city perhaps best known for its eponymous university, holds a significant place in American history that often goes overlooked. 160 years ago, it was the site of a pivotal event in the fight for civil rights: the National Convention of Colored Men. This gathering, held at the former Wesleyan Methodist Church (now the Noble Cellar restaurant), brought together 144 Black delegates from across the nation to discuss and strategize on the most pressing issues of the day, including the abolition of slavery and the recognition of Black Americans as full citizens.

    Led by luminaries like Frederick Douglass, the convention produced a powerful “Declaration of Wrongs and Rights,” outlining the injustices faced by Black Americans and demanding their rightful place in society. This document served as a rallying cry for the abolitionist movement and helped lay the groundwork for future civil rights organizations like the NAACP.

    The church itself has a rich history, having served as a safe haven for fugitive enslaved people on the Underground Railroad. In the late 1990s, three clay face carvings, believed to have been sculpted by those seeking freedom, were discovered in the church’s basement, further solidifying its connection to this important chapter in American history.

    Recently, Syracuse city officials, business owners, and residents gathered to commemorate the 160th anniversary of this historic convention. Mayor Ben Walsh officially proclaimed October 4th as National Convention of Colored Men’s Day, paying tribute to the delegates’ courage and their lasting impact on the fight for equality.

    As the nation grapples with ongoing issues of racial injustice and inequality, it’s crucial to remember and honor the legacy of those who fought for a more just and equitable society. The National Convention of Colored Men in Syracuse serves as a powerful reminder of the long and ongoing struggle for civil rights in America, and the importance of continuing to work towards a future where all are truly equal and free.

    The Civil Liberties Act of 1988: Righting a Wrong, Except the Historical Injustice of Slavery

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    In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed the Civil Liberties Act, a landmark piece of legislation that sought to address one of the darkest chapters in American history: the forced internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. This act provided a formal apology and tax-free restitution to those who were unjustly incarcerated, and to their surviving spouses or descendants.

    The internment of Japanese Americans was a grave violation of civil liberties, fueled by fear and prejudice. The Civil Liberties Act of 1988 was a significant step towards acknowledging this injustice and providing some measure of reparation to those who suffered. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding civil rights and the dangers of unchecked discrimination.

    The Civil Liberties Act of 1988 holds significant importance in the broader context of civil rights history as it represents a formal acknowledgment and apology for a grave injustice perpetrated by the U.S. government against a specific ethnic group. By providing reparations, it set a precedent for addressing historical wrongs and recognizing the importance of upholding civil liberties for all, regardless of race or ethnicity. This act serves as a reminder of the dangers of prejudice and discrimination, and the ongoing struggle to ensure equality and justice for all.

    In contrast to the justice given to the Japanese American victims of internment, the Supreme Court of Oklahoma has once again denied a petition brought by the last two living survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre. This decision perpetuates a significant miscarriage of justice, as the City of Tulsa was involved in the white supremacist violence that destroyed the Greenwood community and killed hundreds of its residents. Despite the ongoing discovery of victims’ remains in mass graves, the City of Tulsa maintains that the survivors do not deserve restitution.

    Reparations for Slavery: Addressing a Historical Injustice

    The issue of reparations for slavery has been a topic of ongoing debate in the United States. It centers on the idea of providing compensation to the descendants of enslaved Africans for the immense harm and injustices inflicted upon them and their ancestors.

    Proponents argue that reparations are necessary to acknowledge the legacy of slavery and its enduring impact on African Americans, including economic disparities, systemic racism, and intergenerational trauma. They propose various forms of reparations, such as direct payments, educational opportunities, healthcare access, and community development initiatives.

    Opponents, however, raise concerns about the practicality and fairness of reparations, questioning who should receive them, how they should be funded, and whether they would truly address the root causes of racial inequality.

    Comparing and Contrasting Reparations for Japanese Internment and Slavery

    Similarities:

    • Both represent attempts to address historical injustices perpetrated by the U.S. government against specific groups.
    • Both involve acknowledging the harm inflicted and providing some form of compensation or restitution.
    • Both face challenges in terms of determining eligibility, forms of reparation, and addressing the long-term effects of the injustice.

    Differences:

    • Nature of Injustice: Japanese internment was a temporary, albeit traumatic, violation of civil liberties during wartime, while slavery was a centuries-long system of brutal oppression and dehumanization.
    • Scale of Impact: Slavery affected millions of Africans and their descendants over generations, while Japanese internment affected a smaller, though still significant, number of people.
    • Form of Reparations: Japanese internment reparations primarily involved monetary compensation and a formal apology, while reparations for slavery encompass a broader range of proposals, including direct payments, educational opportunities, healthcare access, and community development.
    • Current Status: Reparations for Japanese internment were implemented through the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, while reparations for slavery remain a topic of ongoing debate and have not yet been realized at a national level.

    Conclusion:

    While both Japanese internment and slavery represent grave injustices in American history, the scale, nature, and lasting impact of each differ significantly. This has led to different approaches and outcomes in the pursuit of reparations. The Civil Liberties Act of 1988 serves as a precedent for acknowledging and addressing historical wrongs, but the debate over reparations for slavery highlights the complexities and challenges of redressing the deep-seated legacy of this institution.

    While the debate continues, the call for reparations for slavery highlights the deep-seated wounds of the past and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in America. It serves as a reminder of the need for honest dialogue and meaningful action to address the historical and contemporary effects of slavery.

    The Legacy of America’s Segregation Academies

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    About Segregation Academies in the United States:

    Segregation academies were private schools established in the Southern United States in the mid-20th century to maintain racial segregation in education following the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision in 1954, which ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. These academies were founded by white parents who wanted to avoid sending their children to integrated schools.

    Segregation academies were often funded by tuition and donations from white parents and businesses. They offered a curriculum that was similar to that of public schools, but with a focus on white supremacy and segregationist ideology. Many segregation academies also had strict rules about student behavior and dress.

    Segregation academies played a significant role in maintaining racial segregation in the South for decades. They helped to create a separate and unequal education system for Black and white students. Segregation academies also contributed to the white flight from urban areas, as many white families moved to suburbs to avoid sending their children to integrated schools.

    The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 helped to dismantle segregation academies. These laws prohibited discrimination in public and private schools and made it easier for Black students to attend integrated schools. By the 1970s, most segregation academies had closed.

    However, the legacy of segregation academies continues to this day. Many of the schools that were founded as segregation academies are now private schools that are open to students of all races. However, these schools often have a predominantly white student body. The legacy of segregation academies is also reflected in the racial disparities in education that persist in the United States today.

    A recent event hosted by Propublica highlighted the status of “segregation academies” that still operate across the country. “Seven decades after Brown, many of these private schools survive and often continue to perpetuate segregated education systems. During this virtual event — the first in a series focused on education in 2024 — reporter Jennifer Berry Hawes and a panel of speakers will discuss the initial story in Hawes’ series on segregation academies and how these institutions preserve divisions within communities.”

    The panel also addressed the history of segregation schools “and what racial divisions still look like in one Black Belt county.”

    Speakers include:

    – Amberly Sheffield, The University of Mississippi PhD student and historical consultant
    – Dr. Andre Saulsberry, Wilcox County Public Schools superintendent
    – Jennifer Berry Hawes, ProPublica reporter
    – Mara Shalhoup, ProPublica South editor
    – Sheryl Threadgill-Matthews, BAMA Kids, Inc. executive director, and one of the first Black students to desegregate Wilcox County schools

    Freedom Rider James Zwerg: Solidarity in The Civil Rights Movement

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    James Zwerg (born Mar 25, 1940) is an American civil rights activist and college professor. He is best known for being the first white student to enroll at the University of Mississippi in 1962, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement.

    Zwerg was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and raised in a working-class family. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he became involved in the civil rights movement. In 1962, Zwerg decided to transfer to the University of Mississippi, a historically all-white school in the Deep South. His enrollment was met with violent opposition from white segregationists, who rioted and attacked Zwerg and other Black students.

    After Zwerg woke up, he said from his hospital bed, “Segregation must be stopped. It must be broken down. Those of us on the Freedom Rides will continue…. We’re dedicated to this, we’ll take hitting, we’ll take beating. We’re willing to accept death. But we’re going to keep coming.” 

    Despite the violence, Zwerg persisted in his studies and eventually graduated from the University of Mississippi in 1963. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

    Zwerg has worked as a college professor and civil rights activist throughout his career. He has taught at Tougaloo College, Mississippi Valley State University, and Jackson State University. He has also worked with the NAACP and the Southern Poverty Law Center.

    Zwerg’s story is a reminder of the courage and determination of the civil rights activists who fought for equality in the United States. He is an inspiration to all who work for justice and equality.

    The Storied History of Campus Protests in America

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    History of College Campus Protests in America

    College campus protests have a long and storied history in America. They have been used to express a wide range of grievances, from the Vietnam War to apartheid to climate change.

    Early Protests

    The first recorded college campus protest in America took place at Harvard University in 1766. Students protested the British Stamp Act, which they saw as a violation of their rights. In the 19th century, college campus protests became more common. Students protested the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, and the expansion of slavery.                                                                                                                                                      

    A Black Students Union leader addresses a crowd of demonstrators in December 1968.

    The 1960s and 1970s

    The 1960s and 1970s were a time of great social and political upheaval in America. College campus protests were a major part of this upheaval. Students protested the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the women’s rights movement. They also protested against the establishment and the status quo.

    The 1980s and 1990s

    The 1980s and 1990s were a time of relative calm on college campuses. There were still some protests, but they were not as frequent or as large as they had been in the 1960s and 1970s.

    The 21st Century

    College campus protests have made a comeback in the 21st century. Students have protested the Iraq War, the War on Terror, and the Great Recession. They have also protested against racism, sexism, and homophobia. Today, students have launched protests and encampments at more than a dozen schools across the country, from Massachusetts to Michigan to California. They’re protesting the genocide occurring in Gaza following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel that sparked the recent war the international community is now calling a genocide.

    On January 26, 2024 South Africa filed a case against Israel at the ICJ accusing it of ethnic cleansing and genocide of the Palestinian people.

    Columbia University Student Protest History

    Columbia University has a long and storied history of student activism and protest. Some of the most notable protests include:

    • 1968 Columbia University protests: In 1968, Columbia University students protested the university’s ties to the Vietnam War and the construction of a gymnasium in Morningside Park. The protests culminated in a five-day occupation of five university buildings.
    • 1985 divestment campaign: In 1985, Columbia University students launched a campaign to divest the university’s endowment from companies doing business in South Africa. The campaign was successful, and Columbia University became one of the first major universities to divest from South Africa.
    • 2007 graduate student strike: In 2007, Columbia University graduate students went on strike to demand better pay and benefits. The strike lasted for three weeks and ended with a tentative agreement between the university and the graduate student union.
    • 2015 student protests: In 2015, Columbia University students protested the university’s handling of sexual assault cases. The protests led to the resignation of the university’s president, Lee Bollinger.
    • 2016 Black Lives Matter protests: In 2016, Columbia University students protested racial injustice and police brutality in the wake of the killings of Michael Brown and Eric Garner. The protests included a sit-in at the university’s main library.
    • 2024 Anti-Israel protests: Students are calling for an end to the genocide in Gaza, an end to the Oct. 7th Israel-Hamas war and their universities’ investment in companies that profit from it or do business with Israel.

    Supporters of Palestine gather at Harvard University to show their support for Palestinians in Gaza at a rally in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on October 14, 2023. Thousands of Palestinians sought refuge on October 14 after Israel warned them to evacuate the northern Gaza Strip before an expected ground offensive against Hamas, one week on from the deadliest attack in Israeli history. (Photo by Joseph Prezioso / AFP)

    These are just a few of the many student protests that have occurred at Columbia University over the years. Student activism has played a significant role in shaping the university’s history and culture, and it continues to be an important force for change on campus. 

    Significance of College Campus Protests

    College campus protests have played an important role in American history. They have helped to bring about social and political change. They have also helped to raise awareness of important issues. College campus protests are a sign of a healthy democracy. They show that students are engaged in the political process and that they are willing to stand up for what they believe in.