Stars for Freedom program

Collection

Collection number: ahc.MSS651f

Scope and Content

The Stars for Freedom program is a single item produced for the benefit concert. The program includes an introduction written by Martin Luther King, Jr., a welcoming letter from then-mayor Ivan Allen, Jr., and advertisements from local businesses (primarily located on Auburn Avenue). The program has been autographed by Lena Horne, Martin Luther King, Jr., Dick Gregory, and Mercer Ellington.

Dates

1963

Creator

Southern Christian Leadership Conference (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open for research.

Conditions Governing Reproduction and Use

Unpublished manuscripts are protected by copyright. All requests to publish, quote, or reproduce must be submitted through the Kenan Research Center.

Administrative/Biographical History

Stars for Freedom raised funds for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference through the participation of nationally known entertainers. Participants included Harry Belafonte, Sammy Davis, Jr., Marlon Brando, and Lena Horne. Lena Horne, Mercer Ellington (son of Duke Ellington), the trio Lambert, Hendricks and Bavan, Billy Taylor, and George Kirby performed at a benefit concert in Atlanta in August 1963.