Freedom’s Sisters
Much of our national memory of the civil rights movement is embodied by male figureheads whose visibility in boycotts, legal proceedings, and mass demonstrations dominated newspaper and television coverage in the 1950s and ’60s. Missing from that picture is a group of extraordinary women who, while less prominent in the media, shaped much of the spirit and substance of civil rights in America, just as their mothers and grandmothers had done for decades. Freedom’s Sisters, a collaboration between SITES and Cincinnati Museum Center, brings to life 20 African American women, from key 19th-century historical figures to contemporary leaders, who have fought for equality for all Americans. The exhibition is introduced by a video and electronic projections of strong artistic images that will seize visitors’ emotions. Organized around the themes of “Dare to Dream,” “Inspire Lives,” “Serve the Public,” and “Look to the Future,” graphically striking interactive stations tell the stories of Harriet Tubman, Mary McLeod Bethune, Septima Poinsette Clark, Fannie Lou Hamer, Dorothy Height, Coretta Scott King, Rosa Parks, and 13 other women leaders. Picture: Sonia Sanchez, Courtesy Marion Ettlinger
Nominate a Chicago Freedom Sister
Twenty extraordinary women who fought for civil rights and social justice are featured in the Freedom’s Sisters exhibition. These freedom fighters dedicated their lives to improving the human condition across the nation. Countless women in Chicago also fought for justice and parity. DuSable Museum and Macy’s want to celebrate their contributions. You are invited to nominate a local woman activist who participated in the civil rights movement and has historically demonstrated an unbridled commitment to our struggle for equal rights.
All nomination forms must include complete contact information and narrative, in order to be considered valid. Contest runs from February 1, 2010 through March 1, 2010. Forms must be mailed or delivered to DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 East 56th Place, Chicago, IL 60637 or dropped off at Macy’s State Street Store – 1st Floor at Information Desk or 7th Floor – Archives and River Oaks Store – Cosmetics Department, by MARCH 1, 2010. For additional information contact: (773) 947-0600.