The African American Civil Rights Network

On this day in 1957, the Little Rock 9 entered the front doors of Central without a guard for the first time. #FindYourPark #EncuentraTuParque #BlackHistory #LittleRock9 #CivilRightsHistory [Image Description: Members of the Little Rock Nine with Mrs. Daisy Bates.]

Despite their popularity and success, they were repeatedly subjected to the sting of discrimination and often denied accommodations in the various cities where they performed. Today, we applaud their talent and dedication to the uplift of Black culture and education in the US.

Their contributions to the long Civil Rights Movement are a testament of Black America’s ongoing pursuit of justice and equity in the midst of unequal opportunity and treatment.

The African American Civil Rights Network is proud to celebrate this momentous occasion, honoring the accomplishments and perseverance of the Fisk Jubilee Singers.

To learn more about the links between the Penn School and the civil rights movement, click here: nps.gov/places/south-c…

In addition to the educational opportunities at the Penn School, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. organized retreats here along with SCLC members, pushing forward the mission of the Civil Rights Movement.

The Penn School, founded in 1862 established a commitment to Black education, community welfare, and cultural heritage that has remained strong for over 150 years.

Once the school was constructed, the children attended for a full nine month term. To learn more about the “civic-minded people” of Sandy Island that influenced education and political engagement in the area, click here: nps.gov/places/sandy-i…

Prior to the building of Sandy Island School, education on the island took place within islanders’ homes and local churchers. Students would attend school for four or five months out of the year, working alongside their families to plant and harvest for the remainder of the year.

The Sandy Island School on Sandy Island, South Carolina served as the central location for the island community’s activism for political representation and cultural preservation.

Learn more about the Progressive Club by clicking the link below: nps.gov/places/south-c…

In September 2021, the Progressive Club was added to the African American Civil Rights Network (AACRN) for its connection to the civil rights movement. Click here to learn more:

The Progressive Club Sea Island Center on Johns Island, South Carolina played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement, as it was the site for the development of continued adult education, social history, politics, ethnic heritage, recreation, & commerce for the community.