Greensboro Daily Photo

Happy Juneteenth 2023

Happy Juneteenth. It officially became a holiday in 2021. June 19, 1865 was the day that over a quarter of a million enslaved black people in Texas were freed by executive order. Until that date, there were Americans who were not free. To celebrate, Greensboro has had several events already and the festivities will continue today. As examples, there will be a Juneteenth celebration in Barber Park, a celebration at Sternberger Center at 712 Summit Avenue, and a SOULebration at the Piedmont Triad Farmers Market at 2914 Sandy Ridge Road. Today, The International Civil Rights Museum on Elm Street (photographed above) will offer genealogy research as well as a screening of the film, "The Autobiography of Jane Pittman." See here to learn more.

We hope you find some way to celebrate today and that you find a way to make the holiday even more meaningful and that you enjoy your three day weekend.

Happy Monday!

History by the Cup

Today's post is of a sculpture that is part of the "History by the Cup" collection. In 2008, eight bronze cups were placed around the city, They commemorate the historic lunch-counter sit-ins that began with the request for a cup of coffee. The above cup is placed in front of the Cultural Arts Center, near the outdoor seating of Café Europa. It is called, "In the Face of Strange Fruit," by the artist Derrick Monk. There is a quote on a plaque below it, by Antoine De Saint-Exupery, "He who is different from me does not impoverish me- he enriches me." That is a nice quote to keep handy and to live by. 

Next time you are walking around downtown, or if you are downtown for the North Carolina Folk Festival next weekend, you will likely be near the cups. It can be fun to try to find there. Here is a map to help you if you want a self-guided tour. On the day we first noticed this cup, we were in front of the Cultural Arts Center on Davie Street listening to the Triad Ukulele Club. If you like ukulele music or want to learn to play, learn more about the group here. Exploring our community is so special. From listening to music on a First Friday, we learned about the ukulele club and took time to focus on one of the sculptures we had not stopped to look at before. "History by the Cup" reminds us of the power of one, and the fact that we all have the potential to enrich each other's lives.

Happy Saturday! 

February 1st Place

Today's photo is of February 1st Place, located between Market and Washington Streets at Elm Street. It is a short and narrow street that carries a lot of history for our community. The street commemorates the Greensboro Sit-Ins when four African-American NCA&T students engaged in a sit-in at the F.W. Woolworth lunch counter. The Woolworth building, built in 1939, is part of the historic district in downtown Greensboro and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was save from demolition in 1993, estored, and plays a key role in the history of Civil Rights and social justice in Greensboro.

To the right, you can see one of the beautiful flower baskets maintained throughout downtown Greensboro. You can also see a Rolex Clock that stands in a metal case half way down February 1st Place. It harkens back to the days before cell phones and digital technology, when many people depended on analog clocks strategically set around  town. This one is well maintained and keeps accurate time. The metal casing says "Electric Time, Medfield, Mass. It is hard to believe that in less than 100 years, street clocks and downtown variety stores became obsolete. It will be interesting to monitor what future decades bring.

Swift Street AME Zion Church

Since we featured Juneteenth yesterday, let's visit an African American church today, Swift Street AME Zion Church. It is, indeed, located on Swift Street, between Wendover Avenue and West Market Street, near the Terra Cotta Heritage Museum. This is a very active church, committed to God and Jesus and to issues related to social justice as well. They have Sunday school and worship on Sunday and Bible study on Wednesday. The pastor is Rev. Joshua Holmes. The church is so beautiful and look at those beautiful stained glass windows!

The AME Zion denomination was formed in 1821 in New York City. The denomination adheres to Wesleyan-Arminian theology and  was established due to overt discrimination and a need for African-Americans to have a place to worship, have autonomy, and fought hard to be able to not have to have white ministers. The church was largely confined to the north until after the Civil War. *. We wish Swift Street had more church history available through the Internet. However, we're betting those who attend know who the keepers of the church history are. On the day we drove by, there were neighbors out. It is one of those churches that has a community surrounding it that cares about it very much. We hope they had a good Juneteenth and that they are around for years to come.

* read more and reference, here.

Dr. George C. Simkins, Jr.

 

Dr. Simkins (1924-2001) was a Greensboro native. By profession, he was a dentist, but he also dedicated his life to the Civil Rights Movement and social justice. For 25 years, Dr. Simkins led the Greensboro branch of the NAACP.  He worked tirelessly for desegregation of Greensboro.  This statue is located on the northwest corner of governmental plaza. The sculptor is Maria J. Kirby Smith. The statue was made possible by the Guilford County Board of Commissioners and the Joseph M. Bryan Foundation.

The day we visited, a couple of young educators were taking selfie’s here at this statue. How encouraging that they were out interacting with a piece of art about an impactful Greensboro social justice figure. If you head down to visit Governmental Plaza now, you will see the plantings on the plaza in full bloom!

The Historic Magnolia House

The Magnolia House is a Green Book site, meaning it was a destination for African-American travelers during the segregated Jim Crow era. Magnolia House, located at 442 Gorrell Street, was built in 1890. Between 1955- 1961, several prominent African Americans spent the night here, often en route to important engagements north and south of Greensboro. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places and was originally known as the Daniel D. Debutts House. Some of the people who stayed here were James Brown Ray Charles, Ike and Tina Turner, and Jackie Robinson.*

The Magnolia House has so many community initiatives. Also, they offer retreats and corporate events, family events like birthdays and weddings. During the pandemic, they have found very creative ways to have fundraising events, such as music sessions on the porch. They offer shoebox lunches starting at $13. The Magnolia House Foundation hopes to restore and maintain the property as an historic hotel. The above photo of the east side of the property gives you an idea of the size of the house. Just look at that inviting porch. Drive by, if you get a chance this weekend. If you don't, read more in the link below. 

*reference and more information HERE.

Sit In Art

Today's photo is the Church Street Parking Deck. In 2008, he entire stairwell was painted by the African American Atelier in their Summer Around the World Youth Program.  The artist instructor for the above project was Brittain Peck; the assistant was Delois Bynum; story development was by Rameshkathandi; and, the translator was Carlos J. Morales. The project got support from The City of Greensboro, the Greensboro Library Arts Commission, and UNCGreensboro. The stairwell reads like a bilingual cartoon, but with a serious message. The little slice shown today is the Greensboro Four who started the Sit-Ins at the Woolworth lunch counter in 1960.

While outdoor murals have really trended in Greensboro over the last few years, this one can go unnoticed as it is indoors in a stairwell. On the other hand, it is protected from the elements and should last for a very long time. As co-founder of the Atelier, Representative Alma Adams points out*, the Atelier was established so that African American art can be showcased every day and every month of the year, not just in February. The youth group has continued the tradition of memorable art projects since it was established in 1992. Let's hope they do their fine projects for a very long time.

*reference and more information in the News & Record article here.

Greensboro Sit Ins and African American History Month

February 1st, 1960, sixty one years ago, is the day the Sit-In Movement began at the lunch counter at Woolworth on South Elm Street in downtown Greensboro. Initially, four men  started these Sit Ins by refusing to get up from the lunch counter until they were served a cup of coffee. They are featured above.  David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Jabreel Khazan, Joseph McNeil were freshmen at North Carolina A&T during the Sit-Ins. To remember the movement, in 2002, this sculpture, by Jim Barnhill,  was erected on the campus of NC A&T, in front of the Dudley Memorial Building. Barnhill is an art professor at NC A & T. People not from Greensboro don't always realize the extent of this city's involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. Having so many institutions of higher education in Greensboro, including two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), NC A&T and Bennett College, contribute to this involvement. 

Related to civil rights and social justice, so much has happened nationally and in Greensboro just since February One last year. There have been heinous and offensive acts committed against people of color, and protests and reactions. Lets all spend the year doing what we can to make sure everyone is treated fairly and with dignity. Let's check back on February One, 2022,  and assess how the year has been. As we open African American History month, let us learn more about the above four men, and also people of color in the Greensboro community today who are making a difference. Happy Monday! Happy February One!

The Greensboro Greenway: Southeast Portion

Part of the southeast portion of the Greensboro Greenway passes along Bragg Street at Martin Luther King Drive. The above photo shows the asphalt trail that comes up the hill from Morrow Boulevard and crosses over East Gate City Boulevard. The downtown portion of the greenway is a 4-mile, multi-use paved trail. It is the only greenway encircling a city in North Carolina. This beautiful community resource actually connects to 100 miles of existing trails that will only continue to grow. Mr. Mapp's MLK bust (featured Monday) is found along this section of the Greenway. Two additional works of art are here. In the foreground is William Byer's "Reflection Rock" installed in 2019. In the background is the Monument to Dignity and Respect by Vandorn Hinnant. The arm, with a finger pointing to the sky, reads, "Dignity, United We Stand" a message that was heard in the Presidential Inauguration yesterday. Another quote on the Hinnant sculpture reads,  "I've always felt that the place where I live is the place I should improve" Dorothy Brown, Community Leader.

The greenway is a giant effort to unite and improve our community. Here is a detailed map, should you be curious, or even better, interested in exploring the greenway yourself. As you look at the map, you will learn that it was envisioned and inspired by the Greensboro Bicentennial Commission, to be the signature project commemorating Greensboro's 2008 Bicentennial. In 1891, Greensboro became known as the Gate City because so many trains traveled through Greensboro. It was the transportation gateway to the west and south. We're thinking that as of 2021,  Greensboro is on its way to earning another nickname, the Trail City!

Remembering J. Kenneth Lee

The above mural features a Greensboro civil rights great, J. Kenneth Lee. In her News & Record article in 2018, Nancy McLoughlin wrote a befitting title to remember this great man, "Remembering a quiet 'giant' Fighter of racism. Mentor to many. J. Kenneth Lee 'stood at the front of the line all the time'."* Mr. Lee was a civil rights attorney who came to Greensboro to attend North Carolina A&T State University. Mr. Lee went on to obtain a law degree from UNC Chapel Hill and returned to Greensboro to practice and to play an integral part in the Civil Rights Movement. Mr. Lee worked hard to dismantle Jim Crow laws, to help desegregate public schools, and to open doors for African Americans that had previously been closed . As an example, Mr. Lee founded a federally chartered savings and loan, American Federal in Greensboro, making it possible for African Americans to secure loans. As mentioned yesterday, Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. stayed at Mr. Lee's house on Broad Street. While Mr. Lee called Greensboro home for most of his 94 years, he grew up in Hamlet, NC (Richmond County) and remembered fondly his time with his grandmother, who had been a slave. Here is an interesting entry on J. Kenneth Lee in the Carolina Law Oral History Project.

The above mural of Mr. Lee is painted on the Studio 503 building just beside the Point Dance Studio. The mural is located on Washington Street- at the corner of Pastor Anderson Way. Mural artist "Aches", who hails from Ireland, painted the portrait-mural in 2018. Here is an article showing "Aches" during the painting process. It is fascinating how quickly and efficiently these mural artists work!

* Reference and more information in Nancy McLoughlin's article.

Vote!

All is quiet on the corner of Lewis Street and the 600 block of South Elm Street. At this storefront awaits a new business, the owners have brown paper over the windows and a message to VOTE! It will be interesting to see the election results for Guilford County. Our county has voted Democratic in the last four presidential elections and Republican in 2000- when George W. Bush was running. 

Hopefully, you have either already voted, or you intend to vote today. There is no school today. If you are home with children, today is a good day to teach them about civic rights and responsibilities. Have a great Tuesday. Regardless of election results, it will be nice to see the campaign signs disappear from the lawns of Greensboro. If you are working at the polls, thank you for your service!

We Stand Together

Yesterday was Day 6 of protests and the first night of a curfew in Greensboro. By 8:00, people were supposed to be off of the streets. According to news media, the night was relatively calm and protesters mostly disbanded at curfew time.  Notice the messages written above, on the boarded up storefront on south Elm Street, "We Stand Together. BLM Forever. Unity. Together We Stand. Together We Change." Walking from one end of Elm Street to the other, and reading the messages on all of the plywood gives us an idea of how people feel and what they want. The messages are largely positive.

To be sure, we at Greensboro Daily Photo don't have the answers. However, people in Greensboro are feeling marginalized, wronged, and angry, and the situation cannot be ignored. From parents, to daycare workers, to teachers, to politicians, to religious communities, and beyond, lots of conversations need to take place. May we find a way for all to have their voice heard. 

The Movement Continues

Today is February 1, it is the 60th anniversary of the Sit-in That took place at the above Woolworths department store on Elm Street in Greensboro. Mini special that took place at the above Woolworths department store on Elm Street in Greensboro. Every year, special events are held to commemorate this important point in the civil rights movement. 

A really important event will be held this evening. It is the Annual Fundraising Gala and will take place in the Special Events Center at the Greensboro Coliseum. The event will include many notable guests who have contributed significantly to enhancing civil rights in the United States. Award winners include President Barack Obama, Reverend Al Sharpton, Mr. Danny Glover, Ms. Clayola Brown, Reverend Dr. Cardes H Brown Junior, Dr. Linda B. Brown, And Mrs. Emma Washington. To be sure, it will be a night to remember.

International Civil Rights Museum

The International Civil Rights Museum, located at 134 South Elm Street, was founded in 2010.   The first Woolworth opened in 1879, and the Greensboro Woolworth in 1929. The Greensboro sit-ins took place there in 1960, when four NCA&T college students weren't going to take no for an answer with respect to their being able to order from the lunch counter. 

In the above photo, the museum looks quiet and empty. However, during special events, the building is packed. It gets over 70,000 visitors annually. Greensboro played an important role in the Civil Rights movement in the 1960's. It is important that this history be remembered. If you have never visited the museum, you owe it to yourself to do so.  Happy Monday!

On the Corner of Tate & Gate City

This building, at the corner of South Tate Street and West Gate City Boulevard, has housed many businesses over the years. It is located in a part of town that is changing drastically. With UNCG's expansion across Gate City to the edge of the Glenwood neighborhood, college students are seen regularly, walking to and from the two parts of campus.

It is amazing when walking, what you see that you might otherwise miss. For example, on foot, one notices the set of stairs behind the building. Why were they put there? Was it to load and unload inventory or to make it easier to get from Point A to Point B? Also, on foot, the poster on the side of the building invites curiosity: "Civil Rights: Forward and Upward." Did the owner of the building put it there or the last person renting? Was there an event related to Civil Rights in the building?

The photo has a "then/decades later" photo of the Greensboro Four, the four North Carolina A&T students who were instrumental in the Sit In Movement with their refusal to give up their seats at the lunch counter at Woolworth in 1960. While the photo was taken recently, being published in black and white makes it look like could have been taken decades ago. Wonder what the young men walking on the other side of the street noticed the stairs... the poster...

Brian Jones at Scuppernong Books

On Saturday, Brian Jones spoke at Scuppernong books. He is the Associate Director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in New York. He spoke about the radical legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.  About one of the best things someone can do to understand fully what was happening at the time while Dr. King was alive is to listen to his speeches and to read his 1967 book, "Where Do We Go From Here?".

The talk was sponsored by the Greensboro Socialists and approximately 40 people were in attendance. Regardless of political beliefs, it was so informative.  Greensboro has many interesting guest speakers, through the Bryan series, the presentations at all the local universities, and the speakers of special interest groups and organizations. Check in with Scuppernong often as they are always hosting informative events.

The NC A&T Four Monument

On any given day, especially in February, it is common to see people stopping by this iconic statue on the campus of North Carolina A & T University. Dedicated in 2002, it features Jibreel Khazan (Ezell Blair, Jr.), Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil, and David Richmond. Sculptor James Barnhill decided to sculpt the four men marching as they left the February 1, 1960 sit in, as opposed to their sitting. He said he felt like this position had a stronger visual impact.*

Dressed for church, it was with great pride and joy that this family posed in front of  the statue on a quiet Sunday morning on campus. What a wonderful way to help children remember history and learn about a monumental event that impacted our country. 

* reference and more information, here.

African American History Month

February is African American History Month and Greensboro has played a significant role in the civil rights movement. On February 1, 1960, four NCA&T students sat down at the Woolworth lunch counter, a place that only waited on white customers. Greensboro is home to two historically black colleges and universities, NCA&T and Bennet College.

The above photo features the bronze statue of Reverend, Doctor, Martin Luther King, initially sculpted in cement by Wilbur Lee Mapp and cast in bronze in collaboration of Mr. Mapp and Jim Gallucci. The bust is now permanently installed on MLK Drive. If you look closer to the right of it, you can see the water tower of Bennett College. There is talk that High Point University may provide a financial gift so that Bennett College can remain open. The Greensboro/High Point community is known to work together for the common good. Have a great Saturday!

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Ole Asheboro

Yesterday was a busy day at the corner of MLK, Jr. Boulevard and Bragg Street, in the heart of  Ole Asheboro. The above photo features the ribbon cutting ceremony for Monday's opening of another segment of the Downtown Greenway. This part of the greenway is very special to the history of Greensboro, not  only for its significance to the revitalization efforts in Ole Asheboro, but also for the installation of three pieces of very meaningful art.

The family of Wilbur Lee Map was on hand for the installation of Mapp's 1994 bust of Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. In close collaboration with Mr. Mapp, local sculptor Jim Gallucci took Mapp's cement bust of Dr. King and recast it in bronze. Mr. Mapp lived to see the bronze bust completed, but not installed. Also installed on the southside of the greenway were two steel sculptures by Vandorn Hinnant, a Greensboro artist now living in Durham. It is so nice to see citizens, artists, and politicians coming together to celebrate Greensboro. The well-attended event was just perfect for MLK holiday.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Shabbat Service at Temple Emanuel

Last night was the 23rd annual Shabbat Service at Temple Emanuel, honoring the memory of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Also addressed was the issue of racism in society today. Rabbi Guttman went "off script" to address the topic, relating his message to recent events in the news.  The keynote speaker, UNCG's Chancellor Gilliam spoke about racism, the power of storytelling, and the need for social change.

Throughout the very special two hour service, Jewish prayers and rituals were combined with music- contempory, traditional, and religious. The service reminded the congregation and guests that there is much work to be done to have a more equal and just society. It was a memorable moment hearing Hank Brodt, a survivor of five Nazi concentration camps sang V'shamru. Another special moment came when everyone in the room sang a song that combined "America the Beautiful" and "We Shall Overcome." Politicians and religious leaders in the audience were recognized; quite a testimony to the diversity in the audience. At the end of the service, all religious leaders in attendance went up front to show solidarity and a common vision. It was a very memorable service, where all felt embraced and welcome.

Time for Reflection

This bench is placed in front of a porch full of petunias at a home on Walker Avenue, just off Tate Street. It is so inviting and tempting to use for a respite, a time for silent meditation. At least one day a week, we all need to take pause, reflect on the week behind and the week ahead of us. Today would be a good day for to do so.

There are many serious situations in the world right now, one of which is just up the road in Charlottesville, Virginia. Tonight in Greensboro, there will be a candlelight vigil for unity and social justice at Governmental Plaza on Greene Street from 7-8pm. As a community, Greensboro made great headway toward social justice in the 1960's, during the the Civil Rights Movement. Let's hope and pray we can keep race-based violence out of our community.

And, if we see someone on the above bench, we just may ask for permission to join them, regardless of how alike or how different we may be...

D is for Downtown on February First

February 1st is a big day for Greensboro. February 1, 1960 at 4:30 p.m., four African-American college students attending NC A&T University, sat down at the above Woolworth Store at the "whites-only" lunch counter insisting on being served a cup of coffee. The students remained at the lunch counter, a form of non-violent protest, until the store closed that evening. These sit-ins continued and grew in participation, building momentum for the Civil Rights Movement.

The above photo was taken on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday at "ground zero" for the Greensboro Sit-Ins. These children were downtown with their father spending the day learning about Civil Rights and skipping along West February 1.  The building is no longer Woolworth Co, but the International Civil Rights Center and Museum (IRCM).

The February theme for the City Daily Photo Community is "Loving Life". We will share this photo with the CDP Community because these three, happy children exemplify "Loving Life." Today also happens to be ABC Wednesday and "D" is for "Downtown", a fabulous place for teaching children about our city and its history. If you are interested in helping to support Greensboro civil rights history, the ICRM is holding a fundraiser today to help fund field trips for children 336-274-9199. For the price of a designer cup of coffee, you can help a child learn about civil rights.

Triad North Carolina Women's March

Yesterday's marches and rallies in support of women's, human, and civil rights touched the world. The Greensboro crowds were also quite large for our local event- the Triad North Carolina Women's March. The above photo features Rabbi Andy Koren and Rabbi Fred Guttman. Both started their day at Temple Emanuel for the Sabbath service and then, with congregants, headed a few blocks away to the downtown march. People gathered at Governmental Plaza and marched peacefully to LeBauer Park. The expressions on the faces of both rabbis are representative of the tone of the day. These two men work tirelessly for human and civil rights within and beyond the Jewish community. Indeed, Greensboro is greater for their efforts.

YMCA Bus on South Elm Street

It was a beautiful day in downtown Greensboro today. Being in the mid-50's, the weather was perfect for all of the events related to civil rights and community service, including the parade in celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The above Thomas-built bus was parked in front of the International Civil Rights Museum while a group of students was touring the museum. They sounded so energized about their visit. While the museum has struggled financially, when you hear adolescents excited about a field trip and what they are learning, especially when it is historically significant, you know the experience is an important one.

This bus, from one of the YMCA's from the northwest North Carolina region, has a really catchy slogan on the side, "on the road to success." It is beautifully painted and the fact that it was made right down the road in High Point makes it even more special. While the streets look empty in this photo, many of the downtown venues, including the civil rights museum, were busy. Happy Tuesday, today, dear readers. For those who were lucky enough to have yesterday off, it will feel like Monday.

X is for Malcom X

Did you know that Malcom X Liberation University (MXLU)  was located in Greensboro from 1970,  until it closed in 1973? It was located on the above lot at 708 Asheboro Street, now known as Martin Luther King Drive. The institution ascribed to the Malcom X's separatist ideologies and belief in racial equality through any necessary means. The curriculum included academic courses, a two-month stay in Africa, technical courses, internships, physical education, courses in nation-building, and a curriculum that centered on Black Power and Pan-Africanism. The three-year program was very demanding and students only got a weekend off in the case of an emergency.*

The program, located on the above lot, closed in 1973. We aren't sure when the building was torn down, but, all that remains is this open field. We would have liked to have seen MXLU at it's peak, back when the school tried to be as self sufficient as possible and even had a community garden. Greensboro is known for its involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, part of the city's appeal when Malcom X Liberation University relocated here from Durham.

 Today is ABC Wednesday and for our A-Z Urban Finds Series, "X" lead us to Malcom X and MCLU.

*If you are interested in more details, the wiki entry is a good place to start. See, here.

More than Just a Cup of Coffee

(Some of you saw this post yesterday. We are sorry; it posted a day early)....

We love coffee, and public art, and apparently this little robin does, too. This sculpture is located on Greene Street near the Courthouse. There are eight of these sculptures and seven are within easy walking distance of each other. The above cup is listed on the map as #1 (see here). The artist is Rodney Bennett and the inscription reads: “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.“ ~ Ambrose Redmoon. Bennett said he wanted to tell the story of the Greensboro Four, but also the Civil Rights Movement as a whole and equality for all people. That is a powerful message and as relevant today as when it was installed six years ago on the 50th anniversary of Greensboro's Sit-In Movement (Feb. 1, 1060).

If you are out looking for something to do this weekend, you could consider taking the walking tour to see these cups. If you can't go see these great statues, tweet out the suggestion, on behalf of the above robin... corny joke, we know! If you do go, consider taking a damp, soft cloth to erase the evidence that Mr. Robin was there!

Music at the International Civil Rights Museum

Saturday at 1:00 pm. many people in Greensboro (and elsewhere) were out playing music and, in some places, singing along in protest to North Carolina's HB2. The original idea of playing music as a form of protest was sparked by Steve Haines who teaches music at UNCG. Another group, organized by Mark Dillon, also a music instructor at UNCG, sang and played in front of Scuppernong Books on Elm Street. Since the group in front of Suppernong Books, the one at Gibbs Hundred, and the one at Mack and Mack were featured in the News and Record yesterday, we thought we would share the group in front of the International Civil Rights Museum, Greensboro's "ground zero" for peaceful protests. What appeared to be a a high school or college group was playing jazz music. To the delight of the instrumentalists and onlookers, the woman on the right came out of the museum and began singing in her pitch-perfect voice.  What a treat. Greensboro has so many talented musicians and that above group was no exception. The above group was protesting on the very spot where the Greensboro Sit Ins took place in 1960.

In spite of the rain, many people came out to have their voice be heard. Indeed, the event was peaceful, and impactful. 

D is for Dads; Urban Dads

The above photo is a scene from inside the International Civil Rights Museum. It shows the museum at its best, open to the public and serving as a gathering place. Behind the photographer was a table set up for voter registration. In front of the camera is a scene of families gathered after the Dr. MLK, Jr. Parade. On the wall, the sepia photo is of the "Greensboro Four" (from left to right). David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair, Jr., and Joseph McNeil.  They are the four men who sat at the Woolworth's lunch counter, in this very building, and ordered a cup of coffee. In defiance of segregation and in support of civil rights, these four were part of the impetus to change laws related to different treatment based on race.

The above information, the Sit-In story, is known by many, especially locally. What is not as well known is the fact that the "Greensboro Four" have fourteen children. Imagine what great dads and role models they have been. Imagine growing up knowing you have your own dad to thank for changing society for the better. Notice the dads on the couches. Imagine how special their children will feel when they get older, knowing that their dad spent the day with them and brought them out to participate in the MLK Day activities. Twenty-first century urban dads are like that- involved. Frequently, they are seen manning the strollers.

Today is ABC Wednesday and D is for Dads, Urban Dads. (See the other A-Z Urban Finds, here).

Life's Journeys

The above feet are part of a statue in the back of the Weatherspoon Art Museum in Greensboro. They belong to Urban Francis, sculpted in bronze by Judith Shea and representing St. Francis of Assisi. In most religions, bare feet signify humility and service, traits that fit St. Francis. 

Life is full of all kinds of journeys: Spiritual/physical; self-imposed and planned/unforeseen; inspirational/burdensome. As we enter African American history month, let us remember the journeys made by so many people in Greensboro. The Underground Railroad, the network of secret routes to help enslaved people find their way to freedom, began in a wooded area that is now part of Guilford College.* Local residents and devout Quakers, Levi and Vestal Coffin, were very involved in the Underground Railroad. Also, tomorrow, February 1st, is the day in 1960, when the Greensboro Four sat at the Woolworth Lunch Counter in Greensboro and refused to get up- even though the lunch counter was segregated. The bare feet remind us of the protesters in the 1960's who walked and marched and stood up for their civil rights.

If Sunday is a day of rest for you, take a little time and ponder the things you would be willing to stand up and to march for... even if it meant doing so barefoot. If you want to see his face, look, here and a full-length view, here.

*reference.

FINALLY, a photo we can share on Shadow Shot Sunday!

Dr. MLK, Jr. Statue

This statue of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is waiting to the public from just inside the International Civil Rights Museum on South Elm Street in Greensboro. Tonight is a very important day for the museum. They are presenting the "Ignite4Change" Gala, which will be held at the NC A&T University Alumni-Foundation Event Center. Ticket prices range from $125 for an individual ticket to the $50,000, A Changed World, ticket. A ticket at the highest levels allows you to sit at the table with either Ezell Blair, Jr. or Joseph McNeil, two of the four original members of the sit-in group. The money goes to a good cause and the experience would be extremely memorable. Even if you only have an individual ticket, you will not regret attending.

Today is Weekend Reflections and we are sharing this post with our friends at that meme. We love the fact that there are people inside the museum and that they can be seen through the window. The museum has had a lot of traffic lately. Let's hope it stays that way!

It's Time for the MLK, Jr. Parade!

Today is the 3rd Monday in January, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Greensboro celebrates the federal holiday with many events and great gusto. One of the highlights for the community is the parade which will start at 11:00am. It begins on Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and continues on Elm and Gorrell Streets. The above photo is from a few years ago, but shows families waiting along the parade route in Olde Asheboro.

There will be floats, fraternities and sororities, bands, cars, organizations, and so much more. A good time will be had by all. Children seem to especially enjoy the event, especially when the bands are playing. Be sure to dress in warm clothing and take a chair, unless you don't mind standing. Hope to see you there. The house in the background is a Victorian beauty that has been beautifully painted. The architecture, paint, columns, and wrap-around porch represent the Greensboro of yesteryear. The parade represents the civic mindedness of Greensboro's families today!

 

They Took a Seat to Take a Stand!

The above photo features the plaque in front of the International Civil Rights Museum on South Elm Street, recognizing Greensboro as the "Birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement." It also names the four North Carolina A & T State University students who conducted the first lunch counter Sit-In (Franklin McCain, Joseph MaNeil, Ezell Blair, Jr. and David Richmond). In the middle is a quote, "Sometimes taking a stand for what is undeniably right means taking a seat." Such was the work of these four men.

Today, many of us begin a three day weekend. It is a good opportunity to remember the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Greensboro Four;  and to remember the importance of respecting the inherent worth and dignity of everyone living in our community. If you can, consider doing some community service. At the very least, we hope you have time to get out and enjoy Greensboro and to meet some new people in the community. Always be prepared to take a seat to take a stand!

We're sharing today with the Weekend Reflections meme.

Yardley Warner

Social activist, Yardley Warner, was known as a Quaker with a cause. He was born in Pennsylvania and came to Greensboro to help with social justice issues, in light of the changes coming about due to the Emancipation Proclamation. Warner purchased 35.5 acres of land in southeast Greensboro and sold small parcels to free African-Americans for a very reasonable price. He helped build an infrastructure in the community, lived there himself, and taught crafts and agriculture. The neighborhood became known as Warnersville and, while the original neighborhood has changed, the name remains.

The above exhibit was photographed at the Greensboro Historical Museum where there is an exhibit on Warnersville. In case we don't get a chance to tell you closer to the date, on October 18th from 3:00- 4:00 pm, Dr. Arwin Smallwood, Chair of the Department of History at NC A&T State University, will present on the Warnersville neighborhood at the Historical Museum (reference and see more, here). Warner was a Quaker who dedicated his life to issues related to social justice- pretty progressive for the mid-1800's!

Rainbow Spotted in Glenwood

This colorful wall was found in the Glenwood neighborhood, on Glenwood Avenue between Grove and Florida Streets. It evokes a rainbow, with the rainbow colors from red to purple. While the above mural is not in rainbow order, all of the colors are present. The following symbolism is often attributed to the individual colors, especially in rainbow flags: green- nature; orange- healing; red- life; yellow- sunlight; blue- harmony; and purple/violet- spirit. 

There has been so much in the national news this week. The displaying of the confederate flag in public, especially on state buildings, is being challenged. The Supreme Court upheld the Affordable Care Act.  The Supreme Court declared that same-sex marriage is legal in all 50 states.

Rarely does our Nation have so much national news to parse collectively.  Regardless of what you feel about each of these issues, it is fair to say that we all strive for more love and less hate in the world.  It looks like one little building in Greensboro is reminding us of that fact. 

Happy Saturday! 

 

Z is for Zip Code

 

 

 

The US Postal Service began using five digit ZIP Codes in 1963 and the four digit extension was added in the 1980's. The term, ZIP code, stands for Zone Improvement Plan. Today's ZIP code photo features pillows from Design Archives at 342 South Elm Street. While Design Archives vendors have been selling North Carolina and Greensboro T-shirts for a while, the ZIP code pillows are relatively new. Since, 27401 is the code for downtown Greensboro, that is the one that we are featuring in today's post. (Several other codes are available inside).

The Guilford County ZIP code with the largest population is 27410- the western part of Greensboro, within the city limits- with over 50,000 residents . The ZIP code with the most land area is  27358  in the northwest corner of the county (the Oak Ridge and Stokesdale area) with 54.5 square miles.

Today is ABC Wednesday and with today's letter Z, Round 14 is drawing to a close. For our A-Z Alphabet Soup Round,  Z is for ZIP Code and here is Greensboro's ZIP code map. See GDP's Alphabet Soup A-Z entries, here. It is worth a look, if you have time.

 See some general ZIP Code history, here.

At February First, on February First, Remembering February First

Today is February 1st and the above photo is of Feburary First Street, that tiny street that represents such a big event in the history of Greensboro. Just south of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, February First Street was renamed for the heroic event, The Greensboro Sit-Ins, when four students from A&T University sat at the lunch counter and demanded to be served. The back left signage in the photo reminds us that the heroic event took place at Woolworth. The big sit-in event happened on February First in 1960 at 4:30 pm, right inside this building. You. Are. Here. And it is beautiful; on so many levels.

As the nation enters Black History Month, Greensboro enters a period of remembering our efforts in advancing civil rights on February First, in Greensboro, in North Carolina and beyond. Last month, the world lost a great man, Franklin McCain. Physically, he won't be here today; however, his ideas will be here for a very long time. If you have time this afternoon, stop by the museum. Better yet, purchase a ticket and head to the 54th Anniversiary Gala being held at the Khoury Convention Center. A memorable evening will be had by all. Wherever you are, do something today that helps make the world a more just and equitable place.

 

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade

In Greensboro, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade will start at 11 am on MJK Drive. The above photo features last year's parade. Here, we see the Dudley High School Marching Band near the end of the parade as it approached the convergence of MLK Drive and South Elm Street. If you are able to get away from whatever you are doing today, we urge you to attend the parade. It is a great time for people of all ethnicities and races to come together to support the notion of equality and service to community. The parade is always an upbeat and hopeful event, enjoyed by people of all ages. From a balloon-animal-making clown to floats, cars, horses, bands, scouts, fraternities and sororities and grand marshalls, churches and so much more, this event will be a great way to start the day.

This is the 25th year that the Greensboro Branch of the NAACP will sponsor the parade. There are four grand marshalls this year: Caroline Horton; Bishop George W. Brooks, former pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church; Attorney R. Steve Bowden; and City Manager Denise Turner Roth. If you don't go to the parade, at least try to attend something today in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Four Seasons mall is another place that will have lots of events. 

Goodbye, Franklin McCain

Franklin McCain's ties to Greensboro and the Civil Rights Movement were many. He was one of the Greensboro Four who sat at the Woolworth's lunch counter in 1960 humbly insisting to be served a cup of coffee. He continued his great work in many ways, including serving on the board to trustees at NC A&T University and being active with the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. The above photo was taken on February 1st 2010 when McCain (right) and Rev. Jesse Jackson (left) were in town for the 50th Anniversiary of the Greensboro Sit-Ins as well as the opening of the International Civil Rights Museum and Center.* They were looking at the ground because it had snowed over night and Elm Street was slippery. However, the event was so monumental and the dedication to the Civil Rights Movement was so strong, not even ice and snow could keep people away.

Mr. McCain died Thursday at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro. His wife died a year ago (January 2, 2013). They were both involved with the Civil Rights Movement.  The Charlotte Observer shared a quote from Mr. McCain, who was reflecting on the day at the Woolworth's lunch counter, "That day- February 1, 1960- was the best day of my life, and just for sitting on some dumb stool," he said. "It was a reaffirmation of who I am and what I'm supposed to be" (reference). How fitting that Mr. McCain breathed his last breath in Greensboro, a place that helped shape his legacy in the Civil Rights Movement.

Sundays, referred to as Sacred Sunday on GDP, are reserved for moments of spiritual reflection. If you believe in prayer, please say one for the McCain family and for all those following in his footsteps, working to make sure that life if fair, for everyone.  

* more photos & text here and here and here.

Kwanzaa 2013

Kwanzaa has drawn to a close, but we didn't want to say goodbye to the holiday without giving you an idea of how Greensboro celebrated. The Greensboro Kwanzaa Collective hosted a seven-day celebration from 5-8pm ending on January 1st. Several events were held at Bethel AME Church on 200 Regan Street. The above photo was taken at the International Civil Rights Center and Mustum on South Elm Street. They hosted the event on December 28th, celebrating, Ujima- the principle of collective work and responsibility (see reference). 

With New Year's Day and Kwanzaa closing out the holiday calendar, you know it is almost time for students to return to school. If you are Catholic you will likely celebrate Epiphany, Three Kings' Day, on January 6th. If you are Russian Orthodox, January 7th will be Christmas. Regardless of what you celebrate, it is important to have an appreciation of holidays and celebrations of other cultures. If you have not had the opportunity to experience a Kwanzaa celebration, put that you your 2014 to-do list. In the meantime, Harambee* Greensboro!

*let's all pull together

Play. Love. Pray.

Sundays, we try to post something religious or spiritual.* Sometimes it is a house of worship; sometimes it is a view of nature. This week, we share a photo of the most recent City Market- an event which pops up the third Thursday of the month, between Barnhart and Lewis Streets. During last Thursday's City Market, music was playing as were children. Adults were shopping, relaxing with friends and family, and enjoying the sights and sounds of our city.

Throughout the nation, this week has brought heavy conversations over Trayvon Martin's death, the results of the trial, and the fact that not all Americans feel truly equal and equally safe. Even President Obama weighed in on the matter. In memory of Trayvon Martin, several people in Greensboro assembled on West Market street yesterday. It is hard to know what it will take for our Nation to come together and truly feel like one Nation.

Seeing the musicians and the children in the above photo is uplifting. All were having a blast, enjoying not only the event, but also each other. We can only hope that our youngest generation will have an equal chance to have equal lives.  Perhaps the answer is to play, love, pray. Together.

*see previous spiritual, Sunday posts, here.