The March on Washington

A Movement Begins

For black people, speaking out against unfair treatment was an enormous risk, especially in the South. They could be arrested, lose their jobs, or their homes could be destroyed. They could be beaten or killed. But despite the risks, many black men and women did speak out and challenge the unfair treatment. In the early 1900s, they created new groups and organizations to challenge racist laws. The most famous was the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), which was founded in 1909. The NAACP had both black and white leaders who worked to improve the lives of black people in the U.S.

There were other people to improve the lives of black people, too. A. Philip Randolph founded an organization for black railroad porters in 1925, called the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters. This was one of the first times that black people had a union to help them fight against unfair treatment. In 1937, after protesting unfair conditions for the black porters, the Brotherhood got the workers more money, shorter working hours, and better working conditions. Randolph and other members of the union learned that organizing and protesting could change an unfair situation.

Inspired by the Brotherhood’s success, Randolph decided to try and protest in other ways. During World War II, Randolph led a march to protest hiring discrimination by companies making equipment and supplies for the military. Over 100,000 people planned to show up. But a week before the march, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued an order prohibiting discrimination in the defense industry. Just planning a march had been enough to create change.

By the end of the war, black people had learned how to organize and spread their message. They knew protests could be powerful. They were starting a movement. This movement wasn’t about violence. It was about justice. It was peaceful and organized. It became known as the civil rights movement.

That’s Not Fair

After school, Melody and Mommy are entering the lobby of Detroit Bank. They’re the only black people in sight. Melody takes a deep breath, and reminds herself that she’s standing up for her sister, and for making things fair.

When it’s her turn, Melody steps up to the counter. The bank teller is an older white woman with red hair. Melody announces she’d like to withdraw her money. The teller asks how much. Melody responds, “All of it.” The teller asks if she’s sure. If Melody withdraws all of her money, then the account will be closed. Melody firmly responds, “Yes.” Melody’s older sister wanted to apply for a summer job at that bank because she’s good with numbers and money, but the bank wouldn’t even let her apply because she’s black. And that’s not fair. This bank discriminates against black people. Melody doesn’t want her money there anymore.