Civil Rights

PHOTO OF DR. KING IN JAIL IN ST. AUGUSTINE, JUNE 1964


 

 

 

Monumental historic events and critical struggles in America's effort to end Jim Crow segregation, racism and discrimination happened in St. Augustine.

Courageous and determined St. Augustine residents including Dr. Robert B. Hayling (first black dentist in Florida) allied with national civil rights leaders, including, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rev. Joseph Lowery, Rev. Andrew Young, Rev. Hosea Williams in protesting what Dr. King called "the most lawless" city in America (St. Augustine). 

Today, laws prohibiting racial, ethnic, gender, religious and other forms of invidious discrimination have their root in the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which was enacted as a result of what happened in St. Augustine.

The 40th ACCORD (Anniversary to Commemorate Civil Rights Demonstrations), was founded in 2004.  It was formed to remember and honor the Civil Rights Demonstrators from 1963-1964.  You may visit Lincolnville in St. Augustine, and take a tour of the "Freedom Trail" which identifies historic geographic locations during this time.  Visit www.accordfreedomtrail.org.     

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