I Am A Man Plaza
A powerful monument honoring the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike and the fight for civil rights, adjacent to the historic Clayborn Temple.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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I Am A Man Plaza
Best Time
Best for viewing the sculpture
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A powerful monument honoring the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike and the fight for civil rights, adjacent to the historic Clayborn Temple.
"A very nice monument to this historic match and piece of Civil Rights history."
Free to Visit! :money_with_wings:
Admission to the I Am A Man Plaza is free, making it an accessible historical site for everyone.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking around the plaza and potentially exploring the surrounding area, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'I AM A MAN' Sculpture
Center of the Plaza
A powerful sculpture and central monument honoring the 1968 sanitation workers' strike and their fight for dignity.
Engraved Striker Names
Wall surrounding the sculpture
A wall bearing the names of the 1,300 sanitation workers who participated in the historic 1968 strike.
Adjacent Clayborn Temple
Next to the Plaza
The historic church that served as headquarters for the strike and a significant site in the Civil Rights Movement.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free to Visit! :money_with_wings:
Admission to the I Am A Man Plaza is free, making it an accessible historical site for everyone.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking around the plaza and potentially exploring the surrounding area, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Learn the History :books:
Understanding the context of the 1968 sanitation strike enhances the impact of your visit.
Check Clayborn Temple Status :information_desk:
The plaza is next to Clayborn Temple. Recent news mentioned a fire, so check its status if you plan to visit the temple too.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free to Visit! :money_with_wings:
Admission to the I Am A Man Plaza is free, making it an accessible historical site for everyone.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking around the plaza and potentially exploring the surrounding area, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Learn the History :books:
Understanding the context of the 1968 sanitation strike enhances the impact of your visit.
Check Clayborn Temple Status :information_desk:
The plaza is next to Clayborn Temple. Recent news mentioned a fire, so check its status if you plan to visit the temple too.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the I Am A Man Plaza to be a deeply moving and historically significant site, offering a powerful tribute to the 1968 sanitation workers' strike and the broader Civil Rights Movement. Many appreciate the free access and the opportunity to connect with this important piece of American history. Some note the solemnity of the site and its connection to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy.
"While visiting Memphis, it was integral that we go see the history. Civil Rights history, to be specific. I was born in 1968, so I never experienced what my parents witnessed.
The I Am A Man Plaza is adjacent to the Clayborn Temple. This site is where the Memphis sanitation workers gathered during a strike in protest of working conditions.
The Plaza is an open site that has a sculpture paying tribute to the strikers and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The plaza also has a wall engraved with the names of the people who participated in the strike. Martin Luther King came here during the strike and was later assassinated.
It's hard to understand the thought process of those who had hatred for another person in that time period. This is why it's important to visit places like this just to pay respect.
This is a free site at no cost."
Glenda
"Very interesting outlines the events as you walk around the circle. The statue itself has the speech MLK spoke during that time. It also has the names of all striking grounds keepers who wanted higher wages."
LINDA JENKINSON (Jersey Devil)
"Very nice monument to this historic match and piece of Civil Rights history."
The K Green Show
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
I Am A Man Plaza is located in downtown Memphis, adjacent to the Clayborn Temple. It's accessible by car, and public transportation options are available in the city. Parking may be available in nearby lots or on the street, but it's advisable to check for any restrictions.
Yes, the plaza is a prominent landmark in downtown Memphis, often visited in conjunction with the Clayborn Temple. Its central location makes it relatively easy to locate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, I Am A Man Plaza is a public monument and is free to visit. There are no admission fees required to experience the outdoor sculpture and historical markers.
As an outdoor public space, the plaza is generally accessible at all times. However, it's always a good idea to consider daylight hours for the best viewing experience and safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The plaza features a significant sculpture commemorating the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike, a wall engraved with the names of the striking workers, and interpretive elements detailing the historical events. It's a place for reflection and learning.
Most visitors spend around 30-60 minutes at the plaza, allowing time to read the inscriptions, view the sculpture, and absorb the historical context. You might spend longer if you also plan to visit the adjacent Clayborn Temple.
The plaza offers an educational experience about a significant historical event. While the content is serious, it can be a valuable learning opportunity for older children who can grasp the historical context.
Yes, photography is permitted at I Am A Man Plaza. It's a popular spot for capturing images of the sculpture and the historical significance of the site.
📸 📸 Photography
The main sculpture is a focal point for photos. Capturing the engraved names on the wall and the overall plaza layout also makes for compelling shots. Consider the angle of the sun for optimal lighting.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at the outdoor plaza. However, always be respectful of the site and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a way to understand how people fought for better lives and rights. The visual elements, like the sculpture and engraved names, can help make the history more tangible. Pair the visit with a discussion about the significance of the 'I AM A MAN' slogan as a declaration of inherent worth.
🏛️ History Buffs & Civil Rights Enthusiasts
Explore the sculpture and the wall of names to gain a deeper appreciation for the individuals who risked so much for dignity and fair treatment. The proximity to the Clayborn Temple, which served as the strike's headquarters, offers a more comprehensive understanding of the historical context.
This plaza is more than just a monument; it's a place to reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality and the sacrifices made by countless individuals. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 1968 Memphis Sanitation Strike
The strike gained national attention and became a crucial moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. traveled to Memphis to support the striking workers, famously speaking at the nearby Clayborn Temple. The iconic slogan 'I AM A MAN' emerged from this struggle, emblazoned on signs carried by the marchers. This simple yet profound declaration was a demand for basic human dignity and equality in the face of systemic racism and economic injustice.
The strike lasted for 65 days and tragically concluded with the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968, in Memphis. Despite the immense loss, the strike ultimately led to a victory for the workers, with the city agreeing to recognize their union and improve their working conditions. The I Am A Man Plaza serves as a permanent memorial to their courage, resilience, and the enduring fight for justice.
Clayborn Temple: A Historic Hub
Clayborn Temple has witnessed numerous pivotal moments in Memphis's history, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s presence and speeches. The stained glass windows within the temple are noted for telling stories of Memphis activism, adding another layer of historical depth to the site.
While the plaza offers an outdoor tribute, the temple itself is a physical space that resonates with the echoes of past struggles and triumphs. It's important to note that Clayborn Temple has faced challenges, including a fire in recent years. Visitors interested in seeing the temple should check its current status and accessibility. Despite any setbacks, its historical importance remains undeniable, and it continues to be a symbol of resistance and community.
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