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The Movement History Initiative

The Movement History Initiative Telling the story of how young people in SNCC united with local communities in the Deep South to build a grassroots movement for voting rights and change.

01/24/2025

Mark your calendars! 🗓️
CLICK THE LINK TO REGISTER: https://buff.ly/4agwnmV

The SNCC & Grassroots Organizing: Building a More Perfect Union series is coming to Tougaloo College on Feb. 7–8, 2025!

✨ Don’t miss this powerful gathering of Movement veterans, scholars, and community organizers.

01/23/2025

Celebrating the Movement Memory of Robert (Bob) Parris Moses (January 23, 1935 – July 25, 2021) ✊ ✊

When Bob Moses arrived in in 1960, there was no student movement in sight. Ella Baker sent him to the Deep South to find students who could join SNCC's efforts, and by 1961, he had launched SNCC’s first voter registration organizing efforts in Mississippi.

Bob’s genius wasn’t just in —it was in listening. He recognized the untapped power of local voices, empowering grassroots leaders who stood up at meetings and fought for their right to vote. This approach became a cornerstone for SNCC’s grassroots organizing!

And he didn’t stop there. In the ’80s, he shifted his focus to education, founding the Algebra Project to use math as a tool for empowerment, especially for students in underfunded schools. He believed was as central to the fight for civil rights as the vote.

Through jailing’s, beatings, and even having his office burned down, Bob Moses never wavered. From voter registration and Freedom Summer to the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, his work shaped the movement. A MacArthur Fellowship recipient, activist, educator, and strategist, Moses showed us what’s possible when we invest in people, power, and education. His legacy is proof that the fight for justice happens at every level—classroom to community. ✊🏽📚

Learn more about Bob Moses and other SNCC vets by visiting the SNCC Digital Gateway Website (https://buff.ly/3eUa6Ql )

01/21/2025

As the first 100 days of this new presidency unfold, let’s take a moment to breathe, reflect, and rest on this National Day of Racial Healing. 💙✨ Today is a reminder that liberation work is both heart-filling and hard, but it’s also a journey we take together. 🌍

Here’s some inspiration from incredible folks within the movement, to ground us as we recommit to the fight for justice. 🗣️ What does racial healing look like to you? Share your thoughts below! ⬇️

01/20/2025

Today, we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—a visionary whose dream reshaped history. Let’s reflect on his legacy of justice, equality, and love.

What steps will you take today to build a better tomorrow?

01/16/2025

The SNCC Veterans are going to Tougaloo College!!

CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION➡️ https://buff.ly/4agwnmV

Join us at Tougaloo College (Tougaloo, MS) on Feb. 7–8, 2025, for the SNCC & Grassroots Organizing: Building a More Perfect Union series! 🌟

📅 Friday, Feb. 7
10 AM CT/ 11 AM EST (In-person + Livestream)
The Organizing Tradition in the Movement Roundtable Discussion
Learn how SNCC’s grassroots approach shaped the fight for justice and continues to inspire change today.

📅 Saturday, Feb. 8
10 AM CT (In-person only)
Black Power Roundtable Discussion
Dive into SNCC’s work on Black Power with Movement veterans and historians.

📅1 PM CT (In-person only)
Organizing Tradition Workshop
An interactive session for educators, activists, and anyone eager to explore SNCC’s lessons for today’s movements.

✨ Don’t miss this chance to engage with SNCC veterans, scholars, and history! Can’t attend in person? Livestream available Friday morning.

01/14/2025

Celebrating the Movement Memory of Horace Julian Bond (Jan 14 1940- August 15 2015) ✊ ✊

When the Greensboro Sit-Ins disrupted the world Julian Bond was a student at Morehouse College. Instantly inspired by the growing movement, he co-founded the Committee on Appeal for Human Rights (COAHR), organizing sit-ins at lunch counters and bus stations across Atlanta. In April 1960, he would attend the founding conference of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) at Shaw University, and soon after, he became SNCC’s first Communications Director. As editor of The Student Voice, he used the power of words to amplify the fight for justice.

Bond’s commitment to justice would transcend over organizations and occupations. He would serve as a writer for the Atlanta Inquirer. In 1965, Julian would run for a seat on the Georgia State Legislature, facing opposition because of his affiliation with SNCC and their opposition to the Vietnam War. Over his career, he served four terms in the Georgia House of Representatives and six terms in the Georgia Senate. By 1988, he was leading the fight for civil rights as Chair of the NAACP Board of Directors.

Julian Bond was more than an activist—he was a trailblazing organizer, politician, and writer who used every platform to advocate for equality. His legacy is a powerful reminder of what it means to serve the people. 🌟

You can learn more about him, and other members of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee by visiting

SNCC Digital Gateway ➡️ https://buff.ly/4j6IE18
The Civil Rights Movement Archive ➡️ CRMVET.org

# CivilRights

01/09/2025

On this day in ⬇️

Julian Bond was finally seated in the Georgia House of Representatives on January 10, 1967.

After two victorious elections and two blatant refusals to seat him, Bond’s unwavering determination became a rallying cry for justice. The Georgia Legislature's initial refusal, rooted in opposition to Bond's criticism of the and his association with , was met with fierce resistance—not just from Bond, but from the broader movement for equality and democracy.

Bond’s campaign was a masterclass in grassroots organizing. He connected deeply with his community, amplifying the voices of the black community and championing economic and social reforms. Even as systemic injustice stood in his way, Bond remained steadfast, taking his case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled unanimously in his favor in December 1966.

His eventual swearing-in a triumph for the civil rights movement and a testament to the power of persistence and collective action. Julian Bond’s story reminds us that the road to justice may be long, but with courage, strategy, and community, change is inevitable!

Let this moment in history inspire us to fight for what’s right, even when the odds are stacked against us. ✊🏽

Photo Info 📷
1. Unknown author, found on crmvet.org
2. Wisconsin historical Society, found on snccdigitial.org
3. Julius Lester, found on crnvet.org

01/01/2025

Happy New Year from the Movement History Initiative! 🎉 🎉

Here's to another powerful year of resilience, solidarity, and progress in the fight for liberation. Let’s make 2025 unforgettable! ✊✨

12/14/2024

NEW VIDEO 📢 https://buff.ly/4gaXH87

Let’s talk Organizing in the Digital Age 📲🌍

Join a dynamic panel of movement-building leaders as they unpack the evolving—and sometimes controversial—role of in organizing for justice.

Whether you're a seasoned activist, a social media newbie, or someone looking to join the fight for justice, this conversation is packed with powerful insights you don’t want to miss.

This powerful discussion features insights from extraordinary leaders in movement-building, including the late Kenneth Campbell, alumnus and assistant professor in the department of mass communications at North Carolina Central University whose visionary work as a documentary film director, professor, and leader continues to inspire us today. We honor his legacy in this conversation!!

🎥 Tap the link in our bio to watch this impactful discussion now!

12/13/2024

Happy Birthday to the legendary Ella Baker! 🎉

Known as the "Mother of the Civil Rights Movement," Baker dedicated her life to empowering grassroots leaders and shaping the course of history. As a founder of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and a leader who worked with the NAACP and SCLC, she championed strong communities, equal education, and lasting freedom.

Today—and every day—we honor her wisdom and unwavering commitment to collective action.

Learn more about her impact at the SNCC Digital Gateway and CRMvet.org, and let her legacy guide your organizing and movement work! ✊🏾

"

All Photos found on CRMVet.org
1. "Ella Baker inspiring MFDP supporters." Photo by George Ballis
2. "Ms. Ella Baker, Harlem news conference, Jan. 1968" Photo by AP
3. "Fannie Lou Hamer & Ella Baker at MFDP Convention" Photo by Johnson Publishing

12/13/2024

A wise activist once said....🎙️

Nailah Summers-Polite, Co-Director of Dream Defenders encourages us to start meeting the folks where they are when it comes to organizing on social media! Whether it's on with the elders, or with the youngins we have to continue to learn the language in which the people are speaking to be effective organizers.

Tomorrow the FULL video of this important conversation on organizing in a digital world drops at 12 p.m.! Tune in watch the final installment of a powerful conversation among today's activists!

12/12/2024

We mourn the loss of Nikki Giovanni, a poet whose words shaped generations. From the heart of the Civil Rights Movement to the soul of the Black Arts Movement, her powerful voice—rooted in Black resilience and liberation—revolutionized literature and ignited change.

She was not only a poet, but an activist as well. While attending , Giovanni was responsible for reestablishing a campus chapter of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee ( ).

Her legacy lives on in every verse, every story, and every life she touched. Nikki’s spirit will forever guide us, reminding us that our truths, our voices, and our dreams are worth fighting for. Rest in power, Nikki Giovanni 🤎

12/09/2024

There is still time to register for our virtual event ‼️
📢 REGISTER HERE➡️ https://buff.ly/49ky4iN

12/08/2024

Happening TOMORROW! 🎉

Don’t miss out on this powerful virtual event about SNCC and Freedom Teaching with legendary veterans Judy Richardson and Zoharah Simmons, and historian Emilye Crosby.

Join us at 7 p.m. EST to dive into important lessons from the movement and how they still resonate today.

👉 Register now and be part of this unforgettable conversation: https://buff.ly/49ky4iN

12/06/2024

NEW VIDEO OUT NOW📢 https://buff.ly/4g0bDlo

How much power can social media hold for and ?

Watch our latest video featuring Amber Thomas (), who turned a single into a BIG message for change! ✊ ✊

Don’t miss out—check out more videos in the "We Who Believe in Freedom" Panel Discussion series to hear from our incredible activist partners. ✊🎥

12/06/2024

Join us for an engaging online discussion with SNCC veterans Judy Richardson and Zoharah Simmons, alongside movement historian Emilye Crosby, as they share insights into SNCC and the fight for voting rights!

We'll explore how these historical lessons remain relevant today. The conversation will be moderated by educator and PhD student Jessica Rucker. This virtual event is open to anyone interested in learning more, including educators, elders, civic organizations, community and activist groups, librarians, youth, and you!

REGISTER HERE➡️ https://buff.ly/49ky4iN

12/05/2024

A wise activist once said....🎙️

Wisdom Cole, Senior National Director of Advocacy for the NAACP drops knowledge for activists and organizers who are new, experienced, or looking to learn more!

Ready for more knowledge??

Go to our YouTube and watch our latest video and stay tuned for our final video from the "We Who Believe in Freedom" panel discussion.

WATCH OUR VIDEOS HERE ➡️ https://buff.ly/4gkFEfn

Share, Like, Comment and Subscribe for more and .

11/28/2024

Thankful for the hands that push us forward,
For the voices that rise and refuse to be silenced,
For the paths paved with courage and sacrifice,
For the kitchens where love is stirred into sustenance,
For the songs that carry our spirits higher,
For the feet that march and the hearts that lead.

Together, we fight. Together, we build.
Together, we give thanks for the freedom won,
and the freedom yet to come!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! From the Friends and Colleagues of the Movement History Initiative!

Address

Durham, NC

Website

https://snccdigital.org/

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Videos

Reaching Social Media Aduiences with Memes and Images short.mp4

Amber Thomas talks MEMES! As the Senior VP of Operations, Effectiveness, and Improvements at the NAACP , she shares how one powerful meme reshaped digital engagement and created a connection like never before. 👀✨ This week, our We Who Believe in Freedom Panel Discussion continues, diving deeper into organizing in the digital age and the transformative power of effective communication. Don’t miss this must-watch #MovementHistory content. 🔗 Stay tuned for the new video dropping soon! #DigitalActivism #OrganizingOnline #SocialMediaForChange #OnlineActivism #HashtagActivism #SNCCLegacy #BlackPower #GrassrootsOrganizing #MHI #CommunityHistory #CommunityOrganizing #CivilRights #BlackLivesMatter #MovementHistory #VotingRights #Activism #BlackPower #shorts #explorepage #socialjustice #powertothepeople @followers

The Value of In-Person Base Building Over Digital Organizing Short.mp4

Curious about what’s coming next in our We Who Believe in Freedom panel series? 👀 The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee understood the power of messaging. In today’s social media-driven world, exploring how we shape and share our stories is more relevant than ever. Get ready to hear from incredible voices like Ash-Lee Woodard Henderson, the first Black Co-Director of the Highlander Center , as they share insights on this evolving topic. 🎥 Stay tuned—more videos dropping soon! 🌟 @followers

Just in case you missed it 👇 Here’s some powerful advice from Charles V. Taylor Jr. (@charlesrolyat ), Executive Director of the Mississippi State Conference NAACP! (@naacpms ) With Election Day tomorrow, remember—you hold the power! This is your chance to make it count and let your voice be heard. 🗳️💪 Watch this and other videos before you go to the polls tomorrow! ➡️ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeLp7-p-kYnJx8RmLeKhDklzCc3hz-pzh Watch the full video here➡️ "A Successful Election is the Starting Line, Not the Finish Line" https://youtu.be/vgnBmjQUr6Q #ElectionDay #YourVoteMatters #PowerInAction #Election2024 #SNCCLegacy #PowerOfThePeople #VoteForChange #YourVoteMatters #GetOutTheVote #Vote2024 #MakeYourVoiceHeard #ElectionDay #Democracyworks #Blackpower #civilrights #votingrights #bethechange #DefendDemocracy #MyVoteMyVoice

Unnamed Power to Define Clip 3 Short 1.mp4

We’re really good at calling the question, but how about answering it? Tre Murphy (@radical_organizer) challenges us to rethink how we fight for change, urging movement builders to take bold action across new terrains. Catch these powerful insights and inspiring strategies on our YouTube! ➡️ https://buff.ly/4e2of9Q Don’t miss out—watch, share, and subscribe for more exclusive content on Black liberation, movement-building, and organizing for real impact ✊ #FramingTheNarrative #MovementBuilding #OrganizingForJustice #BlackVoicesMatter #SocialJusticeNow #ReclaimTheStory #PowerOfThePeople #VoicesOfChange #activism #definingthenarrative #election2024 #SNCCLegacy #BlackPower #GrassrootsOrganizing #MHI #CommunityHistory #CommunityOrganizing #CivilRights #BlackLivesMatter #MovementHistory #VotingRights #Activism

Black Men Build.mp4

Defining the narrative is a powerful tool in organizing! Phil Agnew, co-founder of Dream Defenders and Black Men Build , shows us how through his work with Black men. Head to our #YouTube for more insightful conversations on movement building, leadership, and shaping the stories that drive change. Subscribe now to stay connected to key strategies and voices in the fight for justice! OUR YOUTUBE➡️ https://buff.ly/3Vmrmnk

2_ Matching the History to the Social Organizing Experience short.mp4

🌟 Do you know the role that an archivist plays? Archivist like Malu Brooks and Khafre Abif give insights on the critical roles they play in documenting Black movement building. You can find out more by watching this conversation on YouTube! CLICK HERE TO WATCH: https://buff.ly/4f0YLKH This clip is from the "We Who Believe in Freedom Cannot Test Until it Comes Intergenerational Organizers Conversation" that was held September 6-10 2023 at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. #archives #libraries #blacklibrarians #blackarchivists #dukelibraries #movementhistory #blackhistory #blackinthestacks #memoryworkers #oralhsitories #hbcus #blackinacademia #ArchivesForBlackLives #ArchivingBlackHistory #BlackLibrariesMatter #BlackHistoryKeepers #ArchivingTheCulture #BlackArchivesMatter #organizing # #SNCCLegacy #BlackPower #GrassrootsOrganizing #CommunityOrganizing #CivilRights #BlackLivesMatter #Activism #socialjustice

Why Archivists Matter: Documenting Black Organizing Efforts

"To tell the story of how we won is to tell the story of our journey." – Malu Brooks, archivist from the Our Story, Our Terms cohort, highlights the crucial role archivists play in documenting Black organizing efforts Want to learn more? Watch our latest video on YouTube featuring powerful insights from Malu and other archivists! Watch our latest video here ➡️ https://buff.ly/4f0YLKH _____________________________________________________________________________________ This clip is from the "We Who Believe in Freedom Cannot Test Until it Comes Intergenerational Organizers Conversation" that was held September 6-10 2023 at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. #archives #libraries #blacklibrarians #blackarchivists #communitychange #dukelibraries #movementhistory #blackhistory #decolonizingthearchive #blackinthestacks #memoryworkers #oralhsitories #hbcus #blackinacademia #ArchivesForBlackLives #ArchivingBlackHistory#BlackCulturalHeritage #blacklibrariesmatter #BlackHistoryKeepers #ArchivingTheCulture #BlackArchivesMatter

Get inspired by powerful wisdom and encouragement from author and SNCC veteran Charlie Cobb! ✊ Discover key lessons from the trailblazers who led organizing efforts during a time of intense prejudice and violence. Don’t miss out—head over to our #YouTube channel now for more essential insights from movement leaders! #snccleagacy #blackpower #grassrootsorganizing #MHI #communitystrong #Community #civilrights #blacklivesmatter #movementhistory #VotingRights #activistlife #blackpower #shortsvideos #exploremore #SocialJustice #powertothepeople #youthorganization #wordsofwisdom #BlackHistoryMonth

The Importance of Leaders When Organizing

When we talk about organizing, we often talk about the power of people and community. Well, what about leaders? Activist Austin Thompson takes a deep dive into the importance of effective and virtuous leaders within the movement and how they strengthen organizing efforts! Have you seen our latest video on #YouTube? Click on the links to hear more knowledge from Austin Thompson and other activist and organizers! Our Latest Video: https://buff.ly/4cUIC8e More From Our Activist Partners: https://buff.ly/4fLjFit #leadership #activism #organizing #blacklivesmatter #communityorganizing #change

Organizing ProTip: Good Leaders Matter

Black Resistance: A History of Organizing

SNCC Veteran Charlie Cobb takes us on a journey through history, showing how Black resistance laid the foundation for the organizing tradition—and where the true strength of the Black community shines. ✊🏿✨ #AfricanHistory #BlackHistory #Blackresistance #Tradition #organizing #strength #Blackpower

The Movement History Initiative

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11/28/2024

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Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Videos

Reaching Social Media Aduiences with Memes and Images short.mp4

The Value of In-Person Base Building Over Digital Organizing Short.mp4

Unnamed Power to Define Clip 3 Short 1.mp4

Black Men Build.mp4

2_ Matching the History to the Social Organizing Experience short.mp4

Why Archivists Matter: Documenting Black Organizing Efforts

The Importance of Leaders When Organizing

Organizing ProTip: Good Leaders Matter

Black Resistance: A History of Organizing

From Resistance to Power: SNCC Veteran Charlie Cobb on Black Organizing History

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