Attraction Guide: International Civil Rights Center & Museum, Greensboro, United States

International Civil Rights Center & Museum Guide

Where Change Sat Down: Relive History at the Civil Rights Center Guide

The International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro, North Carolina, stands as a powerful testament to the courage and determination of the Civil Rights Movement. More than just a museum, it's a living memorial to the Greensboro Four, four young African American students who sparked a national movement with their peaceful sit-in at the Woolworth's lunch counter in 1960. A visit here offers a profound and moving experience, allowing you to connect with a pivotal moment in American history and reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality. The story begins on February 1, 1960, when Ezell Blair Jr. (now Jibreel Khazan), David Richmond, Franklin McCain, and Joseph McNeil, students at North Carolina A&T State University, sat down at the "whites only" lunch counter at the F.W. Woolworth Company store in downtown Greensboro and politely requested service. Their act of defiance, inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and the nonviolent resistance strategies of the Civil Rights Movement, ignited a wave of similar sit-ins across the South. The Greensboro sit-ins lasted for months, facing harassment and threats, but ultimately led to the desegregation of the Woolworth's lunch counter on July 25, 1960. The museum preserves the original lunch counter, a tangible reminder of this pivotal moment. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that chronicle the history of the Civil Rights Movement, focusing on the Greensboro sit-ins and their impact. You can sit at the original lunch counter, watch historical footage, and learn about the individuals who played a crucial role in the fight for equality. The museum also hosts educational programs, workshops, and special events throughout the year. While Greensboro doesn't have a specific culinary tradition tied directly to the museum, the city offers a diverse range of dining options, from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Consider trying a local restaurant to experience the flavors of Greensboro.