King and Andy Young escort children to their newly integrated school in Grenada, Mississippi, 20 September 1965
© Corbis/Bettmann
The King Institute's Liberation Curriculum provides document-based lesson plans, online educational resources, and historical materials pertaining to the modern African American Freedom Struggle and King's vision of a just and peaceful world. Currently directed by Dr. Mira S. Foster, this educational initiative seeks to transform the way students think and learn about history. While acknowledging the contributions of leaders such as King or Gandhi, we focus on the actions of ordinary people. By doing so, we highlight their involvement, courage, and remarkable contributions to liberation movements.
Lesson Plans
Our lesson plans integrate primary and secondary sources, discussion topics, and activities. The goal is to encourage students of all ages to think deeply about the African American Freedom Struggle, current socio-political challenges, activism and movements for justice.
Classroom Resources
Our classroom resources draw upon the research and writings of the King Paper's Project and King Institute staff and are intended for educators, teachers, and students from grades K through college.
Testimonials for the Teacher's Workshops
The King Institute has offered professional development workshops for educators. The workshops help teachers design lesson plans on the life and legacy of Dr. King and the ongoing struggle for freedom. Educators have responded positively to this opportunity, and more workshops are being planned for the future.
"I have modified one of the activities you shared with us for my IB Environmental Systems course as a final review activity (Action Letter to the appropriate school or governmental official) and they are turning out great! One student is even writing to the mayor of Mexico City to address urban air pollution. Thanks for inspiring me to help create global citizens!"
Jessica Magallanes, Instructor in IB Environmental Systems at Sequoia High School
