Muncie Times, Muncie, Delaware County, 20 January 1997 — Page 17

The Muncie l imes, January 20, 1997, Page 17

THE A. PHILLIP RANDOLPH

H O O S

LOTTERY

Often called the “Gentle Warrior”, he is the acknowledged patriarch of the Civil Rights Movement Before Martin or Malcolm, he came to national prominence in the ‘30s for his leadership and organization of African-American workers. In 1948, the pressure of his movement caused President Truman to end segregation in the armed forces. In 1963, he played a pivotal role in organizing the historic 250,000 person march on Washington, a march which he conceived in 1941. ROSA PARKS

The recognized Mother of the Civil Rights Movement Ms. Parks is recognized as the catalyst for change that initiated the Montgomery Bus Boycott Ms. Parks refused to give her seat to another white passenger and move to the back of the bus. This refusal

CELEBRATES THE GIANTS

OF THE

CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT

became the spark of hope that helped build the Civil Rights Movement. Sri her 80s, Ms. Parks is still active today, lecturing and inspiring future generations.

I I

HOOSIER LOTTERY.

FANNIE LOU HAMER A Mississippi sharecropper, her organization of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and eloquent speech on their behalf, forced change within the National Democratic Party. In its truest sense, she was a grass roots activist who, under constant threat of death, registered African-American voters and became one of the first AfricanAmerican delegates to the Democratic National Convention. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. The most powerful and popular leader of the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 60s, his eloquent voice aroused all people to act against oppression. His philosophy of non-violent civil disobedience against injustice helped reduce racial barriers and increase minority voter registration while increasing AfricanAmerican pride and dignity. He received the 1964 Nobel Peace Prize, and in 1963 gave his famous “I Have A Dream” speech to over 250,000 massed at the steps of the Washington Monument.

In honoring these giants, we would be remiss if we did not acknowledge the hard work and commitment of all those who, regardless of race and without national recognition or accolades, were the lifeblood of this movement