Committee on Appeal for Human Rights facts for kids

The Committee on the Appeal for Human Rights (COAHR) was a group of brave students from the Atlanta University Center. They came together in February 1960. This committee wrote and shared an important paper called An Appeal for Human Rights on March 9, 1960.

Just six days after this paper was published, students in Atlanta joined forces. They started the Atlanta Student Movement. They also began the Atlanta sit-ins. These actions were part of the larger Civil Rights Movement. Their goal was to end racial segregation. This meant they wanted people of all races to be treated equally. They wanted everyone to be able to use the same public places. Some of the first members of COAHR included Lonnie King, Julian Bond, Herschelle Sullivan, Carolyn Long, and Joseph Pierce.

What Was the Appeal for Human Rights?

The Appeal for Human Rights was a powerful statement. It was written by the students of COAHR. It called for fairness and equal rights for all people. The students wanted to highlight the problems of segregation. They wanted to show how it hurt people. This document helped to kick off many protests.

How Did Students Take Action?

After the Appeal was published, students decided to act. They started the Atlanta Student Movement. This movement organized protests. One main type of protest was the sit-in. During a sit-in, students would go to places that were segregated. These places included lunch counters and stores. They would sit down and refuse to leave. They did this even if they were not served.

What Were the Atlanta Sit-ins?

The Atlanta sit-ins were a key part of the movement. Students would peacefully protest segregation. They wanted to show that segregation was wrong. They hoped their actions would lead to change. These sit-ins helped to bring attention to the Civil Rights Movement. They showed that young people could make a big difference.

Who Were the Key Members?

Many students played important roles in COAHR.

• Lonnie King was a very important leader. He helped to guide the group.
• Julian Bond later became a famous civil rights leader and politician.
• Herschelle Sullivan was also a strong voice in the movement.

These students and others worked together. They risked a lot to fight for what was right. Their courage inspired many people.

Why Was COAHR Important?

The Committee on the Appeal for Human Rights was very important. It showed the power of young people. It proved that students could lead big changes. Their actions helped to end segregation in Atlanta. They played a key part in the wider Civil Rights Movement. Their work helped make the United States a more fair place for everyone.