Our new multimedia presentation,  Young Leaders of the Civil Rights Movement,  hit the road and provided college students with insight into the legacy of student activism. The program encouraged students on campuses around the country to lead in today’s challenge for social reform, and were reminded that the movement is not just a part of history but, a part of present- day political reality.

“It was great! One of the best programs I’ve seen to showcase the students involved in civil rights movement. The presentation has shown our students that they can be the change today,”  recalls Tracey Reed,  Assistant Director of  Student Life at Penn State University.

From the current events on the campus of the University of Missouri to the Black Lives Matter Movement, to the Occupy Wall Street rallies, the power of students banding together for positive change has sparked a flame of social reform worldwide.

“It was inspiring, I’ve have a better understanding that in the 21st century, we tend to forget how hard people during the civil rights movement fought for our freedom today. It was a motivating experience,”  a student from Atlantic Cape Community College commented.

“I think it’s important that college students are aware of how someone as young as Ruby Bridges could lead a movement that started in her elementary school, and sparked a flame at universities, which led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It’s a story that inspires us all to get out and make a difference,” says Key Arts artistic director, Joseph Patterson.