Quad-Cities library, museum fight for civil rights history

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) - Federal cuts to cultural institutions across the nation have prompted Quad-Cities organizations to strengthen their efforts to preserve civil rights history.

In January 2010, the Davenport Civil Rights Commission, in partnership with St. Ambrose University and the Putnam Museum, unveiled the original Davenport Civil Rights History Exhibit at the Putnam.

The Davenport Public Library and the Putnam Museum are working together to ensure historical records remain accessible as federal funding decreases and some books face bans in various communities.

Historical significance spans decades

The QCA contains several sites of civil rights significance.

Iowa’s largest civil rights rally took place at the LeClaire Park Bandshell on Aug. 23, 1963.

The former natatorium site, a public swimming facility, represents where Black people were denied entry to a swimming facility for many years.

“The impact that a number of individuals had across this country, on this country, and for this country, and that has always been the case for Black America, is fighting for equality and equity for all,” said Ryan Saddler, founder and CEO of Friends of MLK.

Additional local civil rights history includes Martin Luther King Jr.’s documented visit to the QCA when he received the Catholic Interracial Council’s Pacem in Terris award on April 25, 1965, at the now Vicki Ann Palmer Hall, formerly known as the Masonic Temple, Lyceum.

Also, Charles Tony won the first civil rights case in Davenport.

“This again became what I say is the beginning of the Davenport Civil Rights Movement. It prompted a rebirth really of the NAACP to get active,” Saddler said.

Education addresses systemic issues

With federal cuts affecting cultural institutions and book bans occurring in some areas, local organizations say education can address systemic issues.

“I think that’s really important that we be able to show people with artifacts that prove the history of civil rights and discrimination,” said Christina Kastell, Putnam Museum curator of history and anthropology.

Saddler said preserving these records prevents regression.

“If we lose these things, we’re bound to go back to where we were before. Because every community just about here, at least in the Quad Cities, has some significant piece, whether we’ve dug it up or not yet, in shaping who we are in the name of equity and justice,” he said.

Black History Month focus

During Black History Month, organizers say this is a time to reflect on the past and recommit to preserving civil rights history for future generations.

“The importance of an exhibit like this and educating our community is so that our forefathers, and some of those that are still alive today, understand what they went through in order for us to enjoy the rights that we have today,” Saddler said.

“Where is the future going? It gives us an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to the work we are doing,” Kastell said.

The public can experience locations where local civil rights events occurred by contacting the Putnam Museum and Friends of MLK for details on exhibits and other opportunities.