As we mark the fiftieth anniversary of the passage of the Civil Rights Act, Fontbonne University seeks to contribute to a discussion of civil rights in history and also in the present.
More than simply a celebration of the achievements of the civil rights era, we look to humanize the movement at every level — from its great leaders to foot soldiers working in every corner of society, bringing new voices and perspectives to enrich and complicate the dominant storylines.
We look, too, at influences of the movement in the politics of other groups seeking full equality in American society. We ask in what directions those concerned for civil rights need to move today, with a special interest in how Saint Louis places and spaces have shaped and continue to shape what “rights” mean — and for whom. What are the civil rights issues of our generation? Of our region? Of our nation? How can we learn from the past to serve a world in need today?
We invite you to join us by enrolling in classes and participating in activities that can hopefully inspire and possibly challenge each of us to evaluate our choices and actions as we live and work on an increasingly populated and complicated planet.