Clayborn Temple: The Heart of the 1968 Sanitation Workers’ Strike
In 1968, Clayborn Temple became a powerful symbol of resistance and strength in the fight for civil rights. During the Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike, it served as a critical meeting space where workers and activists gathered to demand dignity, fair wages, and respect.
It was here that the iconic “I AM A MAN” signs were printed—statements of power that became a defining image of the movement. The protests that began at Clayborn Temple ultimately led to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final visit to Memphis, where he delivered his famous “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech before his assassination on April 4, 1968.
Today, Clayborn Temple stands as a monument to resilience, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice.
✊🏾 Memphis history is Black history. Never forget.
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