Highlander Research And Education Center
Highlander Research and Education Center
The Highlander Research and Education Center, originally known as the Highlander Folk School, is an esteemed social justice leadership training school. It is located in New Market, Tennessee, and it has played a pivotal role in the advancement of civil rights and social justice movements throughout its storied history.
History and Founding
The Highlander Folk School was co-founded in 1932 by Myles Horton, an influential American educator and political activist. Horton, alongside his colleagues, envisioned Highlander as a center for adult education and grassroots activism, focusing on empowering marginalized communities through education and collective action.
Role in Social Movements
Highlander has been instrumental in various social movements, including the labor movements of the 1930s and 1940s, as well as the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. The center served as a training ground for many prominent civil rights leaders and activists. Its workshops and programs have consistently aimed to unite people across different issues, identities, and geographies to share and build the necessary skills, knowledge, and strategies for transformative social change.
Civil Rights Movement
During the Civil Rights Movement, Highlander became a hub for training leaders and organizing events. It played a notable role in the development of iconic civil rights anthems such as We Shall Overcome, which became synonymous with the movement. Guy Carawan, the center's music director, was influential in popularizing this song.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Highlander's commitment to cultural and social education continues today with a variety of programs aimed at supporting democracy, anti-fascist training, and civics education. Its initiatives, such as the "Seeds of Fire" program, provide mentorship and skill-based training to young activists, ensuring the next generation is prepared to lead the fight for justice.
Notable Figures
In addition to Myles Horton, Highlander has been associated with many significant figures in social justice history. Candie Carawan and Heather Booth are among those who have contributed to its legacy. These individuals have helped to shape Highlander's approach to political education and grassroots organizing.
Challenges and Resilience
Throughout its history, Highlander has faced numerous challenges, including opposition from segregationists and other adversaries. Despite these obstacles, it has remained resilient, continuing to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of contemporary social movements. In 2019, Highlander's offices were targeted in an arson attack, yet the center persevered, reaffirming its commitment to social justice.
Legacy and Impact
Today, the Highlander Research and Education Center remains a bastion of progressive thought and action. It continues to support communities through workshops, cultural organizing, and the preservation of the rich history of Southern liberation movements. Highlander's library and archive serve as a resource for understanding the layered history of social justice work in the United States.