Thursday May 19th

Highlander Folk School, New Market, Tennessee

 Today we completed the SNCC Convention simulation. Our task was to decide upon the next action we should take to advance the struggle for civil rights. The convention featured:

• SNCC advocates for nonviolent civil disobedience
• SNCC advocates for voter registration
• Representatives from the Congress of Racial Equity
• Representatives from the Kennedy Administration
• Civil Rights Veterans such as Ella Baker and Bob Moses

After drafting proposals, students circulated around the room in an effort to build alliances and consensus. Though it was difficult, students ultimately arrived at a sound strategy that closely mirrored what was actually decided upon in August 1961 at the Highlander Folk School. 

Civil rights leaders and organizer meeting and discussing at Highlander Folk School.