Information Panel: Glen Echo Park: Protest Years

Civil rights protests at Glen Echo led to the park's desegregation in 1961.

NPS / Nathan King

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On June 30, 1960, local university students and citizens began a sit-in confrontation and picket line to challenge the long-standing segregation policies at the park. Their efforts succeeded in 1961 when the park's private owner, Rekab, Inc., finally opened its doors to all races.

The demonstrators included national figures, local residents, and student activists.

Gwendolyn Britt, at left, was an 18-year-old Howard University student who later became a Maryland State Senator.