Thinking Globally, Acting Locally

BLM Protests.jpeg

In light of events involving police brutality and mass shootings, in 2018 over 100 students organized a protest called #NEVERAGAIN x #BLACKLIVESMATTER. They marched throughout Oakland to bring attention to police shootings of unarmed African Americans and demands for stricter gun control. 

Divest! Pitt out of South Africa BAS (UA.55.13.3, BOX 1, FOLDER 27).jpg

The South African Apartheid consisted of white Europeans settlers in South Africa that took control of the economy and gained more power. During this time, many companies/institutions, including Pitt, were investing in South Africa because it was profitable. Because of this relationship, several students came together demanding that Pitt's administration divest from South Africa to help end Apartheid.   

The owl 1968 pg 122 (1).jpeg

The Poor People's March, or The Poor People's Campaign, was organized by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King before his death. The goal was to demand that the President and Congress take action to help poor people get employment, healthcare, and housing.  These photos show the protest going through Pitt's campus.  

Flyer to boycott classes in support of Black Coalition Cause BAS(UA.55.13.3 BOX 1 FOLDER 37).jpg

In this flyer, the Black Action Society asks black students to boycott classes and work to support the Black Coalition Cause, and sympathize with the United Pittsburgh Black Construction Coalition.  

In addition to making changes immediately affecting the University institution, Black community members at Pitt have continued to participate in larger struggles for Black liberation and human rights. These include anti-apartheid movements, Black Lives Matter, the Poor People’s Campaign, and movements for Black labor.