Crossing the Line: The Milwaukee Fair Housing Marches of 1967-1968

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How do citizens work for change when faced with injustice?
How can individuals make a difference?

The traveling display Crossing the Line: The Milwaukee Fair Housing Marches of 1967-1968 commemorates the 50^th anniversary of Milwaukee's civil rights marches by examining the practices and prejudices that led to segregation in Milwaukee and chronicling the school desegregation and fair housing movements of the 1960s. It also asks the question, "What can you do to end segregation today?"

This display is available to schools, public libraries, historical societies and civic organizations in Wisconsin.

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Father James Groppi speaking through a megaphone from the hood of a bus. Groppi stands with Alderperson Vel Phillips. Several of the people in the assembled crowd wear Milwaukee NAACP Youth Council shirts. In the foreground are persons in helmets filming the gathering. ID:W0131K3

Background

Crossing the Line tells the story of Milwaukee's civil rights marches in simple language, with reproductions of historic photographs and documents. The display is most suitable for secondary schools and the general public.

View the complete contents of each panel.

This exhibit contains language and images that may be offensive to some viewers. The Wisconsin Historical Society does not condone the use of this language but includes it as an accurate reflection of society at the time.

A teacher's curriculum guide that includes documents on the civil rights movement in Wisconsin and a digital collection are also available (see below).

We gratefully acknowledge the Milwaukee County Historical Society, Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and March on Milwaukee 50th Anniversary Coordinating Committee for their help developing content for Crossing the Line.

Request This Display

Display Details

4 freestanding, double-sided poly fabric banners, 39" x 87", on retractable banner stands

180 sq. ft.

$100, plus transport

Two copies of the display are available for rental, based in Madison and Milwaukee. Renters are responsible for arranging transport to and from their venue; in some cases, venues may be able to make arrangements with preceding or following venues if scheduling allows.

Proceeds from traveling exhibit rentals support the Society's ongoing outreach programs and activities.

Up to 4 weeks. Venues may schedule the display for more than 4 weeks for an additional fee.

During Black History Month, duration will be limited 2 weeks to accommodate increased demand for the display.