“Speaking Truth to Power: The Life of Bayard Rustin” Exhibit On View at the National Civil Right Museum

Preserved behind glass are the passports, letters, telegrams, memorabilia, and 500 more items that belonged to Bayard Rustin. He was a pivotal advocate for non-violence, human rights, and equality during the Civil Rights Movement. 

In one of the sections you can watch a short clip of Rustin speaking to a large and hopeful crowd about “The March on Washington’s Ten Demands” which included fair and decent housing, the right to vote, a raise in minimum wage, and other important matters. This speech followed Dr. Martin Luther King’s iconic “I Have A Dream” speech.

Another distinct way to emphasize Rustin’s activism was his innovative use of the “medium.” He capitalized on the technology at the time to create dialogue inspiring social change. To continue his legacy, plan to attend these engaging events at the museum:

• June 2025: Pride Month Screening of Brother Outsider
 – Followed by a discussion with Rustin’s peers on his role as an openly gay civil rights leader.
• August 2025: Anniversary of the March on Washington Symposium
 – A panel featuring civil rights leaders reflecting on Rustin’s role in orchestrating the historic march and his continued influence on modern activism.
• November 2025: Rustin Movie Screening & Panel – 
Featuring voices from the film’s production on Rustin’s portrayal in media.
• December 2025: Closing Reflections & Future Legacy
 – A culminating discussion on Rustin’s relevance and the collection’s future.

The exhibit features interactive designs aligned with the K-12 curriculum. Furthermore, the museum is introducing a nonviolent direct-action education initiative aimed at college students and young activists, emphasizing that the work is far from finished.

“Speaking Truth to Power: The Life of Bayard Rustin” will be on display until the end of 2025, then it will move to the museum’s Legacy Building following renovations. For more information, visit the museum’s website.

GO THERE:

National Civil Rights Museum

450 Mulberry St.

Open daily from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Closed on Tuesdays