Septima Poinsette Clark

Septima Poinsette Clark

Septima Poinsette Clark (1898–1987) was a Charleston native, educator, and civil rights activist known as the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement.” She believed that education was the key to freedom, equality, and empowerment.

Clark dedicated her life to breaking down barriers to learning for African Americans. She taught children by day and adults by night, helping many gain literacy so they could vote and advocate for their rights. Her creation of Citizenship Schools across the South empowered thousands to become active participants in democracy.

Despite facing discrimination and losing her job for her activism, Clark’s courage and vision inspired national leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Her work proved that knowledge is power and that education can change lives.

At Septima P. Clark Academy, we proudly carry her legacy forward. Our school stands as a place of empowerment, growth, and opportunity—honoring her belief that learning brings freedom, dignity, and hope.

“We need to be taught to study rather than believe, to inquire rather than to affirm.”
— Septima P. Clark