Greensboro Four and the Sit-in Movement

Introduction to the Greensboro Four

• Members: Joe McNeil, David Richmond, Junior Blair, Frank McCain
• Age: Youngest member was 17
• Shared living space: Same dormitory

Reaction to Jim Crow South

• Initial feelings: Anger towards racism and segregation
• Personal belief: Felt equal to whites and refused to accept inferiority
• Decision to act: Determined to take a stand against segregation

The Sit-in Strategy

• Initial actions:
  • Purchased small items to establish themselves as customers
  • Sat at a lunch counter and requested coffee
• Store response: Manager refused service
• Publicity: Associated Press present during their departure

Growth of the Movement

• Expansion: First day – 4 participants, second day – 16-20 students joined
• Nature: Organic growth of the movement, driven by shared anger
• Commitment to non-violence: Ensured all actions remained peaceful

Challenges Faced

• Tensions heightened by the third day of protests
• Possibility of violence: Could have been forcibly removed
• Resolve: Committed to their cause despite fear

Impact in Nashville

• Influence of Greensboro: Inspired Nashville sit-ins on February 13, 1960
• Personal reflections: Despite fear, believed action was necessary to combat segregation

Broader Movement and Support

• National participation: Adults and students in major cities outside the South joined in protests
• Support from leaders: Martin Luther King Jr. acknowledged their efforts as standing up for American values

Legacy of the Sit-ins

• Ordinary people’s role: Emphasis on the movement being led by everyday citizens
• Concept of 'soul power': Power of non-violent actions to inspire change
• Call to action: Encourage others to speak up against injustice

Conclusion

• Personal philosophy: If the country is flawed, strive to fix it
• Message of perseverance: Don’t give up; aspire to make a difference