Fifth UT Martin Civil Rights Conference

February 21-26, 2005

“Then and Now: The Road to School Desegregation in West Tennessee , 1955-2005"

The conference gathers individuals “from the trenches” and scholars who provide individual stories and a broad picture of events prior to, during, and after the landmark case Brown v. Board . This year, besides the experiences of African Americans, those of Native Americans will be the focus of study. Several of UT Martin's distinguished staff and students are among the speakers, panelists, participants, and organizers.

The UT Martin Civil Rights Conference aims at promoting and teaching tolerance, in order to promote dialogue and to learn from the past in order to shape the future. It also aims at increasing the knowledge of West Tennessee 's rich history. Finally, it honors individuals for their commitment to the advancement of civil rights. Now in its fifth year, it has received national recognition. In 2004, the Department of History and Philosophy was awarded a Certificate of Commendation by the American Association for State and Local History. The award will be presented to the university at the Thursday luncheon, during which selected individuals will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the cause of the Civil Rights movement.

The conference will sponsor special events such as the book and CD signings on Tuesday and Thursday, the Awards Luncheon on Thursday, and the Saturday trip. The field trip will take us to Henning, where we will visit the Alex Haley museum and tour the Choctaw village, then to Chucalissa where we will have a Native American meal, visit the village, and listen to a musical performance by the Chucalissa Drum group.

All events are free and open to the public. Reservations are needed for two events. Please contact swaterfield@utm.edu or (731) 881-7493 for reservations and event details.

1. Thursday, February 24, 2005 Awards Luncheon. Tickets are $ 15.00.

2.Saturday, February 26, 2005 Field Trip. Tickets are $ 10.00 including museum entrance and luncheon at the Chucalissa site.