3 Must-See Civil Rights Spots in Washington, DC

Photo by Sonder Quest on Unsplash

The history of the fight for civil rights in the United States is one of the most fascinating parts of its history. The 19th and 20th centuries were largely marked by social movements pleading for more rights for African-Americans, a fight which largely continues to this day.

The capital city of Washington, DC was in large part the home of these struggles and hosts a number of sites that anyone in this history should check out. Here are three to add to your list.

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Inaugurated in 2011 after two decades of planning, fundraising, and construction work, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is located next to the National Mall. A gorgeous sculpture made of white granite, it captures the essence of King’s serenity, steadfastness, and grace.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture

Another recent addition to Washington, DC is the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Here, in addition to other artifacts and exhibitions commemorating achievements of the black community, you will find a large part of it dedicated to the community’s struggle for equality.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Frederick Douglass was one of the early founders of the Civil Rights movement, emerging as a key figure in the fight for emancipation in the 1800s. You can visit his 19th century home and estate and discover his fight for equal rights.