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How do communities today build power, confront injustice, and create lasting change? And what can we learn from those who came before us? 

The 1955–56 Montgomery Bus Boycott is an example of what people can accomplish together. Led by Black residents of Montgomery and a young Martin Luther King Jr., the boycott demonstrated how shared purpose, disciplined nonviolence, and community solidarity could challenge injustice, change laws, and help spark the American Civil Rights Movement.  

This spring, the Â鶹³ÉÈ˾«Æ· for Teaching Innovation and Inclusive Excellence's Â鶹³ÉÈ˾«Æ· for Equity, Education, and Belonging (CEEB) invite the campus community to explore the 70th anniversary of the boycott as a living example of collective courage and nonviolent resistance. Together, we’ll reflect on the boycott’s lessons and consider what it might mean to practice nonviolence and confront injustice in our own communities today. 

Our spring series includes a screening of Eyes on the Prize, a multi‑week Learning, Reflection, and Action Group, and a culminating community conversation on civil resistance and the boycott’s enduring impact. 

Eyes on the Prize Viewing Party  

Wednesday, February 4 | 5-6:30 pm | MLK Jr. Room  

Join us as we kick off Black History Month 2026 by commemorating the  with a community viewing of Eyes on the Prize, Episode 1, the iconic documentary series on the Civil Rights Movement.  

This episode helps us understand this historic boycott, and the students, workers, and community members who came together to challenge injustice and ignite a movement that transformed the nation. The evening will include a screening of the episode followed by a facilitated reflection. We’ll discuss the courage, organizing, and resilience that defined the boycott and the lessons that still resonate today.  

This event is open to all students, faculty, staff, and guests.  

Legacy of Civil Resistance: Taking Action    

Friday, March 6, 11:45-1 pm |  

Facilitators: Abby Machson-Carter (Â鶹³ÉÈ˾«Æ· for Teaching Innovation), Carlie Pierre (Inclusive Excellence), and Margo Shea (History)
Through a short video and optional pre‑readings in this interactive workshop, we’ll look at how everyday people - and in particular black women - transformed overwhelm into coordinated action during one of the most influential movements in U.S. history. We’ll reflect on the parallels to our moment and consider ways to act without pressure or burnout. You’ll leave with clarity, inspiration, and one doable next step. 
This session is interactive but feel free to bring your lunch! 

Community Conversation: Civil Resistance and the Montgomery Bus Boycott  

Save the date for our final event, a community activist panel and discussion on Thursday, April 9. 

As a capstone to our spring programming on the 70th anniversary, in this conversation we’ll hear from a panel of local community activists and leaders about the organizing and advocacy they are doing in their community, the legacy of the bus boycott, and the kinds of action that are needed today.