The Sit Ins Up Close

As I was looking into the “sit ins” in Atlanta, GA I came across a wonderful website (crdl.usg.edu) that has multiple video clips that showcases a variety of “sit ins” within Atlanta, GA and the “deep’ South. If we look at certain restaurants the one that mostly comes to my mind is the “sit in” on June 9, 1963 at S&W cafeteria. Today the S&W cafeteria is no longer located in downtown Atlanta, It closed in the 1970's, the original location was on 16th street avenue where the former Greyhound Bus station use to be located. After the closing in 1970 the name switched to S&S cafeteria but it still kept that “soul food” southern delight cuisine. S&S Cafeterias are still scattered throughout the city of Atlanta. The one I pass by often when I am in the city is located on Campbellton Road in Atlanta, GA; a image of the cafeteria is below.

I agree, this cafeteria looks very aged but this is also the same company that denied their facilities to any minorities but especially African-Americans. Below is a clip from the integration attempt from “sit in” protesters in downtown Atlanta, GA.

This clip gives insight to the protesters that risked their lives for change. On the other hand, what is extremely hilarious to me is Ebony Magazine in 1970 considered Atlanta, GA the “black mecca” of the South.

Lets please pay close attention to the words at the beginning of the article, racial peace and prosperity. Have this city evolved from the 1963 S&W Cafeteria clip or have social justice prospered in the “black mecca?” Have Phyl Garland created an imaginary image through the usage of a publication media? I think this article complements my topic because Garland states, “…during the mid-’60s…virtually every large city with a sizable black population were ‘heard from’.” I actually like the statement because it shows that the city of Atlanta were able to evolve in one aspect of the community. According to Garland, “blacks…[can] go anywhere…and their dollars are welcome as anybody else’s.” My fellow colleagues I categorized that previous statement as a sign of change but keep in mind the “sit ins” during the Civil Rights Movement doesn't stop in one town, stay posted.