April 9
Marian Anderson Sings at Lincoln Memorial
On April 9, 1939, after the Daughters of the American Revolution refused to let Marian Anderson perform at Constitution Hall because of her race, Eleanor Roosevelt helped arrange a free open-air concert at the Lincoln Memorial. An estimated 75,000 people attended.
Civil Rights Act of 1866 Passed
Passed on April 9, 1866, over President Andrew Johnson's veto, the Civil Rights Act was the first United States federal law to define citizenship and affirm equal protection under the law.
Paul Robeson Born
Born April 9, 1898, Paul Robeson excelled as a scholar, athlete, singer, and actor. He used his fame to advocate for civil rights and social justice globally.
Richard Allen Founded AME Church
On April 9, 1816, Richard Allen founded the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia. Born into slavery, Allen purchased his freedom and built one of the most important institutions in African American history, providing spiritual, educational, and political leadership.