Civil Rights Guide for Annapolis and Anne Arundel County

60th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act

2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a historic law making discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin illegal. In light of this significant milestone, Governor Wes Moore of Maryland declared 2024 as Maryland's Year of Civil Rights. To honor this occasion, the state has planned various events, exhibits, and commemorations throughout the year.

The state of Maryland has an impressive roster of Civil Rights pioneers, and Annapolis and Anne Arundel County are no different. To honor the people who have stood steadfast in the struggle for change, Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County has compiled a list of 60 Civil Rights sites for the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act. #60Years60Sites

Spotlight on Civil Rights

Anne Arundel County has a complex Civil Rights history. From segregated communities, schools, and venues throughout the County to the landmark case of Murray v. Pearson, argued by then-lawyer Thurgood Marshall, which challenged segregation in education and set a precedent for future Civil Rights cases in the state, the area has seen many achievements and setbacks in the movement. During Maryland's Year of Civil Rights, Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County aims to provide a historical journey that showcases the region's Civil Rights history.

Civil Rights Guide for Annapolis and Anne Arundel County

Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County spearheaded a multicultural advisory committee of local historians, artists, writers, and business & community leaders to gather a comprehensive list of the County's Civil Rights sites for the guide. Through this dedicated process, we have created a 24-page, full-color printed publication including maps, historical information, photographs about the Civil Rights movement, and inspirational stories of resilience and resistance for visitors to explore.

View The Guide

Explore Maryland's Civil Rights Story

Discover more stories by visiting Maryland's new site, which is dedicated to stories of Maryland's Civil Rights movement. The struggle for Black civil rights in Maryland created a legacy of lasting change that shaped the nation. As Black Marylanders faced discrimination throughout Jim Crow segregation, they organized, resisted injustice, and were victorious in fighting for their rights. Students and adults, men and women, and people young and old demonstrated and fought in courtrooms and on picket lines, challenging the “separate but equal” doctrine. Maryland is the proud birthplace of civil rights leaders Thurgood Marshall, Verda M.F. Welcome, Gloria Richardson, Clarence Mitchell, Jr., and countless others. 

Continue the Journey - Black History 365

Black History 365 is a collection of stories, art, and events that highlight the history, heritage, and contributions of Black Marylanders and the history of the people of the African Diaspora in Annapolis & Anne Arundel County. Here, their culture and excellence are celebrated year-round through a collaborative initiative across county and statewide organizations spearheaded by the Banneker-Douglass Museum.

The Banneker-Douglass Museum is the state's official museum of African American history and heritage. Named for Benjamin Banneker and Frederick Douglass, it features a wide range of rotating and permanent exhibitions. When planning your itinerary, be sure to visit their latest exhibit, REVISIT/REIMAGINE: The Civil Rights Era in Maryland and Parallels of Today.

Delve deeper into the area's history by exploring the Underground Railroad, learning about Maryland's Civil Rights pioneers, or experiencing the Annapolis Juneteenth Parade & Festival or the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival. There is so much to celebrate during Maryland's Year of Civil Rights, and we invite you to begin your journey in the heart of the Chesapeake, here in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County.