Born: 1929 (Alabama)
Died: May 22, 2019
Biography:
Theresa Burroughs (1929 May 22, 2019) was an influential figure in the civil rights movement during the 1960s in the Southern United States. Born and raised in Alabama, she dedicated her life to fighting for the right to vote for African Americans. Burroughs played a crucial role in the historic events that unfolded in Selma, Alabama, and her unwavering commitment to equality left a lasting impact on society.
From a young age, Burroughs witnessed the injustices and discrimination faced by the African American community in Alabama. Motivated by a deep desire for change, she became actively involved in the civil rights movement. Burroughs joined forces with other activists and organizations, dedicating herself to organizing voter registration drives and ensuring that African Americans had a voice in the political process.
One of the pivotal moments in Burroughs’ life came in 1965 during the famous Selma to Montgomery marches. Alongside fellow civil rights demonstrators, she courageously attempted to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma. However, they were met with brutal opposition from state troopers and sheriff’s deputies, who attacked and arrested them. The violence that day, known as Bloody Sunday, shocked the nation and became a catalyst for change in the struggle for voting rights.
Burroughs’ dedication to the cause went beyond her participation in protests. In 1968, she founded the Safe House Black History Museum in Greensboro, Alabama. This historic location served as a sanctuary for African American leaders during the civil rights movement, including the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. During his visit to Alabama, Burroughs hid Dr. King from the threats of the Ku Klux Klan in her mother’s home next to her beauty parlor called In Beauty’s Care, which she had opened a few years prior.
In addition to her activism, Burroughs made significant contributions to her community as a cosmetologist. Through her beauty parlor, she not only provided hair and beauty services but also served as a safe space for African Americans to gather and share their experiences. Burroughs’ dedication to uplifting others and her commitment to equality made her an inspiration to those around her.
Burroughs’ connection to the civil rights movement extended beyond her own activism. She was a childhood friend of Coretta Scott King, the wife of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Their friendship strengthened their shared commitment to justice and equality.
Theresa Burroughs continued her activism and advocacy for civil rights throughout her life. Her determination and courage paved the way for social progress and helped dismantle the barriers that denied African Americans their fundamental rights. Her legacy lives on, reminding us of the power of individuals to make a meaningful difference in the world.