Tonight Grant and I were privileged to attend the Smithsonian, National Museum of American History event, Running Against the Storm, to honor the four brave young men who took a stand (well a seat) in Greensboro, NC on February 1, 1960.
The Greensboro 4 were given the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal for their demonstration for justice and equality and their lifelong commitment to education and tolerance.It was an incredible event. Not only were we able to hear from each of the four men (David L. Richmond Jr accepted the award for this father) who spoke so humbly and gracefully of their experience and their continued work for justice and peace, but we also heard from Congressman John Lewis, who for a man of small stature can fill a room to the brim with his presence.
After the event we attended a reception on the second floor of the Museum, right beside the display that brings you back to that moment, the counter from the Woolworth store. Grant and I were fortunate to speak with Dr. Franklin McCain, one of the Greensboro 4 and Congressman Lewis. It was quite an experience and one I'll never forget.
My understanding is that CSPAN will be re-airing this event today and there will be a live webcast with the Greensboro 4 today as well.
Here are some more pictures from the event and from the little snow storm we woke up to this morning.