The Jackson House

“The vote is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have.” -Congressman John Lewis

In 1965, millions of Americans witnessed now-infamous images of a peaceful march for voting rights in the Alabama city of Selma. The events that followed would lead to one of the most important events in American History: the Selma to Montgomery March. Soon, a piece of that story will open at The Henry Ford’s Greenfield Village, sharing with new generations the power of community against injustice.

The Dr. Sullivan and Richie Jean Sherrod Jackson Home, to open in 2026, introduces the Jackson family, who, through opening their doors to the world, and their friend Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., helped to challenge second-class citizenship for African Americans in the United States.

As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, join Amber N. Mitchell, Curator of Black History at The Henry Ford, in a discussion on the Jackson Home, the Voting Rights Movement, and the family whose personal risk led to a massive win for all Americans.

Host or Publisher Parkman | Detroit Public Library