Committee for Freedom Now

Committee for Freedom Now

The Committee for Freedom Now (CFN) was a civil rights organization active during the 1960s in the United States. It played a significant role in the struggle for racial equality and justice, particularly in the northern states. The CFN was known for its grassroots organizing and direct action tactics, which were instrumental in challenging systemic racism and advocating for African American rights.

History

The Committee for Freedom Now was founded in the early 1960s by a group of activists who were inspired by the successes of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). Unlike these southern-based organizations, the CFN focused its efforts in the northern states, where racial discrimination was often less overt but equally pervasive.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the CFN were to:

• Combat racial segregation and discrimination in housing, employment, and education.
• Promote voter registration and political participation among African Americans.
• Organize protests and demonstrations to raise awareness of racial injustices.
• Collaborate with other civil rights organizations to strengthen the movement.

Key Activities

Voter Registration Drives

One of the CFN's major initiatives was to increase voter registration among African Americans in northern cities. The organization believed that political empowerment was crucial for achieving racial equality. They organized door-to-door campaigns and educational workshops to inform African Americans about their voting rights and the importance of participating in elections.

Protests and Demonstrations

The CFN was known for organizing protests and demonstrations to draw attention to racial injustices. These events were often held in collaboration with other civil rights groups and aimed to pressure local governments and businesses to change discriminatory practices. Notable protests included sit-ins, marches, and boycotts.

Educational Programs

The CFN also focused on education as a means of empowerment. They established community centers where African Americans could access educational resources, attend workshops, and participate in discussions about civil rights issues. These programs were designed to build leadership skills and foster a sense of community among participants.

Legacy

The Committee for Freedom Now played a crucial role in the civil rights movement by addressing racial inequalities in the northern United States. Although the organization eventually dissolved, its efforts contributed to significant changes in public policy and social attitudes towards race. The CFN's legacy is reflected in the continued fight for racial justice and equality in America.

See Also

• Civil Rights Movement
• NAACP
• CORE
• Black Power Movement

References

• "The Struggle for Freedom: A History of African Americans," by Clayborne Carson.
• "Eyes on the Prize: America's Civil Rights Years, 1954-1965," by Juan Williams.