The Children’s March: Stories from the Birmingham Children’s Crusade
Young people are changemakers and our hope for this Civil Rights Toolkit is that it inspires young people to learn lessons from the past to positively impact the present—and future!
Through digital storytelling, writing prompts, art activities, and supplemental interactives, this toolkit provides something for all ages. We have curated the content for specific grade levels and encourage grownups to review the activities in advance to assess the appropriateness of the material for their child’s specific needs.
Videos.
Atlanta History Center presents a unique children’s lesson about the Birmingham Children’s Crusade. Combining stories from the past, original artwork, and historic photographs, The Children’s March explores the resistance and persistence of young people in 1963 as they nonviolently protested for change.
-
Sing With Us!
Grade Levels K–3
The children of Birmingham raised their voices to protest segregation and inequality during their march in 1963. Sing along to “Woke Up This Morning,” one of the many protest songs that carried the Civil Rights Movement.
-
Sing With Us!
Grade Levels 4–6
Sing along to “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around,” one of the many freedom songs sung by participants of the Civil Rights Movement.
-
Sing With Us!
Grade Levels 6–8
Sing along to “We Shall Overcome,” one of the most recognizable and sung protest songs during the Civil Rights Movement.
Activities.
In 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Now, in observation of Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, we invite you to submit your dream. What do you wish for the world? What would you like to see us overcome? Please, submit your dream and help Atlanta History Center to imagine a more just and equitable existence for us all.
Record Your Response-
In Sing With Us! “Woke Up This Morning,” we show you how to use household objects as musical instruments. Make your own instrument to sing and play along with us!
-
In our video Sing With Us! “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around”, we talk about how songs often have special meanings! Learn to write your own poem, song, or creative writing piece based on a photograph.
-
We all know music is not the only way to raise your voice! Resistance comes in many creative forms. Use blackout poetry to tell your story.
-
Use this guide to create your own video or recording and tell your own stories.
Explore. More.
-
Exhibition
This online exhibition explores the African American struggle for full citizenship and racial equality that unfolded in the 50 years following the Civil War.
-
Story
We believe that there are, indeed, singular and extraordinary historical moments—but we also know that there are countless events in the past that can teach and inspire us. We are excited to share with you some stories of Atlantans who have proven courageous, creative, and steadfast in the face of adversity.
-
Public Programs
Honoring the life and legacy of Atlanta’s most well-known civil rights leader.
-
Learning Lab
Through digital storytelling, writing prompts, art activities, and supplemental interactives, this Civil Rights Toolkit provides something for all ages.