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Planning and Preparation
A group of four African American college students from Ezell Blair Jr. (now Jibreel Khazan), Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil, and David Richmond—decide to take action against racial segregation. -
The sit in
The Greensboro Four, as the men became known stage a sit-in at the segregated lunch counter of the Woolworth’s store in Greensboro, North Carolina. They sit quietly at the counter, asking to be served, but are refused service. Their peaceful protest sparks significant media attention and interest. -
Sit in continues
The Greensboro Four continue their sit-in, joined by other students from local colleges. The sit-in becomes a regular event, drawing more participants and support. -
Sit in grows
The number of participants grows, with around 300 people joining in the sit-ins. Demonstrators are often met with hostility, but they maintain a nonviolent stance. -
...and grows
A significant demonstration occurs as the protest continues to gain momentum, with hundreds of supporters participating and more stores facing similar protests. -
...and Grows
The protest spreads to other cities, including Charlotte, Durham, and Winston-Salem, as the sit-in movement gains national attention. -
Impact
The Woolworth's store in Greensboro announces that it will integrate its lunch counter, following increasing pressure from the sit-ins and public support.