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The Daughters of the American Revolution and the Marian Anderson Incident

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The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) journey from racial discrimination, exemplified by the Marian Anderson incident, to embracing diversity is a significant narrative in American civil rights history. The DAR's policy changes and recognition of diverse patriots, including the election of Wilhelmena Rhodes Kelly, reflect a broader societal shift towards inclusivity.

The Daughters of the American Revolution and the Marian Anderson Incident

The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), an organization for women who are descendants of individuals involved in the United States' independence, faced criticism for racial discrimination in the early 20th century. In 1932, the DAR adopted a policy that prohibited African American artists from performing at their Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., due to some members' objections to integrated audiences. The policy's impact was highlighted in 1939 when the DAR denied the acclaimed African American singer Marian Anderson the opportunity to perform at the venue. This decision prompted First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to resign from the DAR, citing her disapproval of their exclusionary practices and emphasizing the organization's failure to lead progressively.
Majestic concert hall with stage, red velvet curtains, shiny black grand piano and African American singer in elegant dress.

Public Outcry and the Historic Lincoln Memorial Concert

The DAR's refusal to allow Marian Anderson to perform at Constitution Hall led to a public outcry and significant media criticism, with comparisons drawn between the DAR's actions and the racial policies of Nazi Germany. In response, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, along with Walter White of the NAACP and Anderson's manager Sol Hurok, arranged for an alternative performance at the Lincoln Memorial. On April 9, 1939, Anderson performed to an audience of over 75,000 people, with millions more listening via radio. Her powerful performance, particularly of "America (My Country, 'Tis of Thee)," became an iconic moment in the struggle for civil rights and highlighted the issue of racial discrimination in the United States.

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DAR's racial discrimination policy adoption year

1932, DAR barred African American artists from Constitution Hall.

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Eleanor Roosevelt's reaction to DAR's exclusion of Marian Anderson

Resigned from DAR, protesting their racial discrimination.

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DAR's stance on integrated audiences in the early 20th century

Opposed, leading to exclusion of African American performers.

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