Black History Month | Civil Rights and Social Justice Heroes
MY HERO Celebrates Black History Month. Be Inspired by African American Civil Rights and Social Justice Heroes.
Civil Rights and Social Justice Heroes
The MY HERO Project celebrates African American Civil Rights Heroes and Leaders who have revolutionized America.
Without the perseverance, courage, dignity--the deep abiding faith in democracy--of the following heroes, all citizens would not be considered equal in the eyes of the law. And yet this is one of the most American principles the country holds.
From the abolitionists of the 19th century to the contemporary Black members of Congress who tirelessly work for equal rights, all Americans are indebted to their commitment to social justice.
When the United States finally elected its first African American President--Barack Obama--in 2008, it was a testament to the progress that was made from the Civil War to the present. We look to the heroes of the past and present as the United States continues its evolution to live up to its promise of liberty and justice for all.
Films about Social Justice Heroes, Past and Present
In this film, John Lewis, U.S. Congressman, speaks about the importance of being a good citizen.
In 1965, the historic Selma March was a turning point in the Civil Rights Movement. John Lewis—a revered U.S. Congressman who was then a young student—co-led hundreds of peaceful marchers seeking voting rights for African Americans in the South.
This documentary tells the story of William D. Matthews, the first African American officer of the Civil War, who helped slaves escape using the Underground Railroad and heroically led troops to victory.
This documentary created by a middle school student is about the unsung hero Fannie Lou Hamer who helped African Americans receive their right to vote.
Stories of Civil Rights Heroes
Bayard Rustin organized one of the largest nonviolent protests ever held in the United States: the 1963 March on Washington.
Vijay, a middle school student, wrote about his hero Thurgood Marshall, who was appointed as the first African American Supreme Court Justice and advanced desegregation in the United States.
Congressman John Lewis talks about how Martin Luther King Jr. inspired him as a young man during the Civil Rights Movement.
John Lewis worked for civil rights for all for over 40 years.
Art Inspired by Civil Rights Heroes
Thurgood Marshall was the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice and helped end segregation.
Rosa Parks was a civil rights activist, best known for helping launch the Mongtomery Bus Boycott.
Ruby Bridges desgregated her school in Louisiana.
Stories of Contemporary Social Justice Leaders
Barack Obama was the 44th President of the United States and the first African American to hold that office.
Michelle Obama was First Lady of the United States, and the first African American to hold that office.
Ronald V. Dellums is a former U.S. Congressman who fought against apartheid in South Africa. [This story is available with audio.]
Art Inspired by Contemporary Social Justice Heroes
Ben Heine pays homage to great African-American civil rights heroes Martin Luther King and Barack Obama.
Chilean artist Enrique Cornejo-Sanchez was inspired to make this art after hearing former First Lady Michelle Obama speak.
The March on Washington was held on the 100th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. On this day, Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his famous "I have a dream" speech to 250,000 people.
Organizer created on 1/28/2019 1:45:40 AM by MY HERO Staff
Last edited 2/21/2024 3:17:44 PM by Laura Nietzer
