As we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy this January, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on the Civil Rights Movement and the individuals who worked to bring equality to America. While MLK’s name is one we all know, fewer are familiar with Fred Gray, his lawyer and a crucial figure in the Civil Rights Movement. Fred Gray’s legal work placed him amid the Civil Rights Movement. He represented Rosa Parks during the Montgomery Bus Boycott, challenged systemic discrimination in Supreme Court cases, and fought for justice for the victims of the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment. At 95 years old, Fred Gray continues to work for justice and inspire others with his story, as detailed in his autobiography Bus Ride to Justice: The Life and Works of Fred Gray. His unwavering commitment inspires us to fight for equality and not give in to hate. 

Students traveling to Washington D.C. and exploring Civil Rights landmarks receive a profound way to connect with this legacy. Sites such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, where MLK delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, and the National Museum of African American History give excellent insight into the movement’s history and how it helped shape the nation. Walking through these sites is more than a school exercise. It can become an emotional and inspiring experience that deepens students’ understanding of the sacrifices made by leaders like MLK and Fred Gray. These sites highlight the power of ordinary people taking extraordinary actions to challenge injustice and ignite lasting change. The Civil Rights Movement’s call to action is as relevant in 2025 as it was in 1965. 

How School Tours of America Supports Learning and Civil Rights Education 

School Tours of America is proud to provide students with opportunities to experience the history of the Civil Rights Movement firsthand through unique tours of Washington, D.C. Our trips are designed to bring history to life and connect students with iconic landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Supreme Court. These sites can communicate a deeper understanding of events that shaped our nation. 

STA truly supports on-site learning and is key to inspiring the next generation of leaders. By walking in the footsteps of trailblazers like Dr. King and Fred Gray, students gain a personal connection to the values of courage, equality, and justice. Through our tours, we aim to honor the Civil Rights Movement's legacy while encouraging young minds to continue their work in their own communities. Let us help your students explore these transformative stories and make history a living and breathing experience. 

Prepare for the Journey 

Students can enrich their visit by diving into the history of the Civil Rights Movement before arriving in D.C. Reading Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches, such as “Letter from Birmingham Jail” or “I Have a Dream,” provides background for the sites they will visit. Watching documentaries about Fred Gray’s groundbreaking legal work or exploring resources on the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment can deepen their understanding of the ongoing fight for justice. Preparation can transform a tour into a truly meaningful experience. 

Discover Hidden Gems 

In addition to major landmarks, Washington, D.C. has lesser-known civil rights sites worth exploring. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, located near Freedom Plaza, is a public library named in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It serves as a tribute to his legacy of civil rights and is a historically significant/architecturally notable building. The Library of Congress features exhibits highlighting the contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. These stops add another layer of insight into the movement and give students a broader perspective on the fight for civil rights. 

Connecting the Past to the Present 

The lessons of the Civil Rights Movement are not confined to the past. Today, students can draw parallels between the struggles of the 1960s and current social justice movements while at the towering Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial or walking on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, imagining the echoes of MLK’s voice during his “I Have a Dream” speech. These activities spark thought-provoking discussions about how young people can participate in their own communities, emphasizing that the fight for equality continues. Visiting artifacts like the Greensboro lunch counter at the National Museum of African American History and Culture leaves a lasting impression, connecting students with the courage and determination of those who paved the way for justice. A tour of Washington, D.C. is not just a history lesson; it is an inspiring trip that brings the past to life and motivates the leaders of tomorrow. 

Let’s Go! 

School Tours of America 

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