A history FOR THE FUTURE

Inspired by Atlanta’s Sweet Auburn Historic District—birthplace of Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement—Civil Sights by Gene Kansas is a definitive resource that ignites passion and inspires action for cultural heritage preservation. From the neighborhood streets where Dr. King first dreamed of equality to the spaces and places that witnessed generations of heroines and heroes working toward freedom, we invite kindred spirits to join us in conserving, protecting, and caring for our collective civil rights history. Together, we can ensure these vital stories continue to educate, inspire, and shape a more just and equitable future.

THE FUTURE OF OUR SHARED CIVIL RIGHTS HISTORY IS NOT GUARANTEED. SINCE ITS DESIGNATION AS A NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK DISTRICT IN 1976, SWEET AUBURN HAS LOST NEARLY 47% OF ITS HISTORIC STRUCTURES.

In “Civil Sights,” author Gene Kansas meticulously shares the stories of the people and places that came together to move mountains before, during, and after the Civil Rights Movement. These remarkable citizens made history that must not be forgotten. Through the preservation of buildings, rights, stories, traditions, songs, dance, theater, customs, and many other forms of culture, we can make that dream a reality.

When it comes to preservation, “Civil Sights” serves as both a resource and a guide, aiming to provide information and inspiration for individuals and groups to unite and make a positive impact today through their own projects, lesson plans, conversations, and actions. Connections to history can inform tomorrow's change.

“Civil Sights” is a co-publication of University of Georgia Press and Georgia Humanities.