Local History Librarian Jessica Robinson has hosted two incredible programs in the last several months dealing with Cleveland Heights-University Heights’ history of integration and desegregation.
The first, “Through the Ivory Curtain: The History of African Americans in Cleveland Heights from 1900-1960,” Explores the little known history of African Americans who lived in Cleveland Heights long before the organized fair housing and community integration movements of the 1960s-70s. This lecture was presented in partnership with the Cleveland Heights Historical Society and the Cleveland Heights Landmark Commission.
The second, “Resisting Segregation: Cleveland Heights Residents Shape Their Community 1964-1976,” recounts the citizen-led activism that transformed Cleveland Heights from a nearly all white, insular suburb to a racially inclusive diverse community with a vibrant civic culture. Inspired by the civil rights movement, residents of one of Cleveland’s first suburbs fought for racial justice where they had the greatest chance to make a difference, their community.
The videos are included below. Enjoy!