Earlier today, I came across a set of truly inspiring photographs from the Civil Rights Era. They were highlighting some amazing use of typography in a protest campaign, but I saw them for something else: powerful imagery of community organizing.
Under the rallying cry of “I Am A Man,” these men — wielding their striking signs — set out to demonstrate that most fundamental of points: that they deserve to be treated with basic human dignity.
Walking past these men, how could you not reflect on their humanity? How could you not ask yourself, “am I treating these men [there it is, ‘men’] like I treat everyone else?” It’s a thought that will fester — one that will take root in your mind and grow until you can’t possibly ignore it any longer.
But just as impressive as the typography and the messaging it communicates is the message these men are sending by their very presence. They are organized around a purpose. They are committed to making a difference. And they are willing to take a great, personal risk in order to realize that change.
I can’t help but wonder which of them were the organizers. Which of those men said to their friends: “Come with me. I need you to stand with me. Your community needs you. Your children need you.” And how many of them left that day and became recruiters, themselves. Because that’s how communities make a difference. That’s how the real organizing happens — not with petition signatures, but with real, person-to-person communication.