Event to Honor A&T Four's Pivotal Role in Civil Rights Movement Marks 65th Anniversary

A&T Recognizes Legacy of the A&T Four and Their Role in Civil Rights at 65th Anniversary Event

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University will observe the 65th anniversary of the historic 1960 Woolworth’s sit-in, a pivotal act of resistance led by four A&T freshmen that ignited a significant wave of civil rights activism. The anniversary will be commemorated with the Sit-In Anniversary Breakfast and Wreath Laying on January 31, 2025, at the North Carolina A&T Alumni-Foundation Event Center, located at 200 N. Benbow Road.

Themed "Perseverance: The Power of an Ageless Evolution," the event will begin at 8 a.m. with a program featuring retired U.S. Representative G.K. Butterfield as the guest speaker. The program will pay tribute to the A&T Four—Maj. Gen. Joseph McNeil, Jibreel Khazan, and the late Franklin McCain Sr. and David Richmond Jr.—and acknowledge the many individuals who played a crucial role in the success of the sit-in. This includes A&T students, faculty, local activists, and Greensboro residents who provided support to the protesters.

As part of the ceremony, the N.C. A&T Human Rights Medal will be awarded to an individual who has made significant contributions to the advancement of civil rights, civil liberties, or human rights. The name of the honoree will be disclosed during the event. Notable past recipients include U.S. Representative John Lewis, North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls, and the Rev. William J. Barber II. Following the breakfast and program, participants will proceed to the February One Monument for a wreath-laying ceremony in memory of McCain and Richmond. The N.C. A&T Fellowship Gospel Choir will perform "Lift Every Voice" at both the breakfast and the wreath-laying ceremony.

In addition, more than 500 students are expected to engage in a social justice discussion from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., in collaboration with Guilford County Schools. This session will take place in Harrison Auditorium, providing students with an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of the A&T Four and the ongoing fight for social justice. The 65th anniversary of Woolworth’s sit-in honours the legacy of the A&T Four and all who contributed to the civil rights movement. This event serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and equality, inspiring future generations to continue the work of perseverance and activism.

Editor’s Note:

The 1960 Woolworth’s sit-in was a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement. On February 1, four A&T freshmen Ezell Blair Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), David Richmond, Franklin McCain, and Joseph McNeil sat at a segregated lunch counter in Greensboro, NC, requesting service and remaining seated when denied. Their peaceful protest sparked widespread attention, inspiring others to join and leading to the desegregation of many public spaces. Their peaceful act of protest is remembered as a powerful moment in the fight for racial equality. To honour this historic event, North Carolina A&T State University is hosting a special celebration. The university’s commemorative event will not only recognize the bravery of the A&T Four but also celebrate the ongoing efforts for social justice. It serves as a reminder of the progress made and the continued need for activism to create a more equal society for all. 

Skoobuzz recognises their courage and determination and remembers this event as a pivotal moment in the struggle against racial segregation in the United States.