Bayard Rustin: The man who transformed the civil rights movement

[@ramiyazje]

Can't believe this is the first time I ever hear about Bayard Rustin. What a man

[@yvonneplant9434]

He was openly gay when it was obviously not acceptable to many people. That's likely why you never heard of him.

[@marvinhagler4721]

​@@yvonneplant9434And they won't bring up he was a agent against his own people

[@marytheresejacksonlutz2533]

Same

[@MrFasikaH]

Bayard Rustin was CIA. Did he spy on King just like Ernest Withers? Of course he did. He lost all credibility in my book.

[@ryanamari2233]

Id watch Rustin a biopic on his life

[@TheMrchuck2000]

As a gay man, learning about Bayard Rustin made me so proud. God, if only we had had awareness of all the brilliant gay men who came before us, to know that we were just fine, and shouldn’t have to hide such an important part of who we are. I applaud the bravery and guts of those men who fought the way for us.

[@jamesinbaltimore5487]

A life well lived. He lifted all of us. Thank you, Mr. Rustin, rest in peace.

[@MrFasikaH]

Bayard Rustin was CIA. Did he spy on King just like Ernest Withers? Of course he did. He lost all credibility in my book.

[@OhyesSofresh]

Black people hated MLK during his lifetime and the reason was because white people hated him. I just look at all this and find it so comedic but sad at the same time

[@colegio2239]

Just saw the film “Rustin” and I can say unequivocally that it was emotional, triumphant and passionate; a true learning experience! Proof that the power of film serves to educate and elevate the social conscience of all people!

[@mac609]

What an amazing human being and it took a Netflix movie for me to discover him. Rustin is a civil rights hero.

[@patriciagurwitz509]

These stories need to be told❤️🙏🏽

[@COJAZZ3]

I've never heard of Bayard Rustin until I watched the Netflix movie last week. I can't imagine how many more amazing people who were a part of the Movement that we don't hear about.

[@iismyalias]

“Speaking truth to power” is a favorite phrase. I’ve never heard of this gentleman. Basically he was pushed aside bc he was gay. Unfortunately this was quite typical for the time period and still not so uncommon. I’m glad he’s getting this recognition.

[@leonardodemelo3711]

What a disservice that we don’t teach and alert society of all these special people behind the scenes that focus ideas into movements… thank you “Sunday Morning” for introducing me to Bayard Rustin….a truly great American…. A pioneer of tolerance and fair play…..a patriot… a light in the darkness…. A giant!

[@MrFasikaH]

Bayard Rustin was CIA. Did he spy on King just like Ernest Withers? Of course he did. He lost all credibility in my book.

[@Flashbang83]

There are hundreds of people in the black , Native American, and latinos communities that performed such great acts for the advancement of their respective causes. please research, read and look for these individuals, some may be gone, but theres still many out there .

[@Neosoul_prima]

They largely write all openly queer people out of history! Especially BLACK HISTORY!

[@1974missy]

I’m here after seeing the movie on Netflix. I was moved and saddened to have never heard of Mr. Rustin. Representation matters and the way this film tells his story is very honorable.

[@horseygurl143]

I took a class in college called "The Life and Times of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." He actions were noted, but we all wondered why he was not heard of outside our class. Glad to know about his contributions to Civil Rights.

[@lamara8497]

I've seen him in photos with MLK and you can spot him in the video during that speech but I had no idea that the man behind him was the genius behind the march. I've watched the movie on Netflix and it was done masterfully. He doesn't get his credit for being that passionate about what he believed in. Brilliant, unselfish and a strong individual man that cared for everyone. Dear Mr Rustin, As a young black man in today's society, I want to personally that your for the genius and commitment that you put forth so that I can be who I am today. To have the right to be able to do the things you and your freedom fighters weren't able to do. I understand there are more major plays involved during that era but you had the confidence to muster up the idea to create something powerful! Here it is 2023 and you are finally getting more than just a medal but a voice to those who do not know your story! Thank you Mr Bayard Rustin!

[@mjg239]

I just watched the film on Netflix here in Germany. Great film! The actor who played Bayard did a fantastic job. Hope he gets some awards!

[@carolyn816]

Thank you for this. I live in Montgomery Alabama and we have a Bayard Rustin Community Center and Thrift Store. I have always wondered who he was.

[@maryburrell3948]

I enjoyed the Netflix movie about Bayard Rustin. Coleman Domingo is excellent as Bayard Rustin. Hope he gets nominated for Oscar.

[@cheyennebrennan966]

I LOVE that at last, these architects of the Civil Rights movement airbrushed from history are FINALLY being recognised: Bayard Rustin, Claudette Colvin ect. ❤❤

[@teresalegler2777]

Thank you for this wonderful story. Somehow I was unaware of Bayard Rustin and his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. Can’t wait to see this historical message movie.

[@sereion]

I just finished watching the movie, and I am so glad his story is finally being told. Thank you, George Wolfe for formally introducing the world to Bayard Rustin.

[@jc22358]

History is beautifully messy. No need to be afraid of it; it should be studied, savored, cherished.

[@carolynbarr770]

60 years later I know now this hero. Rest in peace 🕊️ Mr Rustin, thank U for your service!

[@DannyLTerry]

There were many black gay CIVIL RIGHT'S activists who WERE AND are not recognized because of their sexual orientation. It is time we know who and about these great worker's of the civil right's movement. 🙏🏼💙🙏🏼

[@INeedABlessingNow]

It is great that Mr Rustin is being recognized for his work in the civil rights movement. Thanks to the Obama's for again acknowledging his efforts.

[@dre9682]

I remember doing a report on Rustin and his speech was literally one of the hardest ones I’ve heard. It was only audio on this website and I listened to it a lot I’m trying to find it again. I’m glad they’re making a movie about this man.

[@BenjaminJDunn]

Thank you, Rustin! Thank you for this tribute! Rustin deserves medals, sculptures, bios, and be remembered!

[@normancollins7141]

As a Jamaican Teacher of Sociology, I have always been interested in any policies relating to Civil Rights for marginalized people, in general. I knew about the contributions of Bayard Rustin to the American Civil Rights movement; and I always wondered why a film was not made about his contributions to the struggles. After all, he was the main conceptualizer of the March on Washington. Thankfully, the present film about this great African American Civil Rights organizer, really puts into perspective, in an unbiased and honest portrayal, of who this man was, and the positives he did for his country. Indeed, if the history of the American Civil Rights movement is to be told to the truth, it is fair to say that, based on the conservative and hesitant nature of the non-violent philosophy of the movement, in a kind of ironic twist, it was mainly the dreams of Bayard Rustin that Dr. King became awaken to, on that faithful day, during their March on Washington.

[@bernardwylie9760]

Thank you chatGPT

[@debbiecooper1677]

that is a nice picture of his grandmother. she looked like she a loving face.

[@somerslim25]

i am 65 years from singapore and always admire MLK work even visit memphis Lorraine Motel twice and never heard of Mr. Rustin, thanks for another history lesson

[@adamyourke]

Wonderful! It reminds me so much of the Billy Strayhorn story who composed much of Duke Ellington’s work, another gay and largely uncredited gay man.

[@hectorsmommy1717]

I first heard about him when reading John Lewis' book "Walking With the Wind: A memoir of the movement".

[@trooper6418]

Awesome segment!! Looking forward to learning more about Mr. Rustin and his contributions. Thank you, Mr. President.

[@MrFasikaH]

Bayard Rustin was CIA. Did he spy on King just like Ernest Withers? Of course he did. He lost all credibility in my book.

[@mililaniman]

I enjoyed learning about the legacy of Bayard Rustin.

[@bodaciousandunapologetic6209]

I’m glad his story will be told. Long overdue.

[@terryowings5667]

This is the great thing America does ..... it's called History through a Lens! What a wonderful voice Rustin had! Maybe a movie should also be made of Roy Wilkins the top guy at the NAACP for 20 years around the middle of the last century!

[@fool1shmortal]

It seems, from the movie, he was in the way of the march a lot of the time.

[@MH-pz8wf]

Unsung hero, overshadowed undeservingly.

[@EnronnSierra]

No ever talks about how much MLK was a known adulterer. Society was so hypocritical back then. I'm sure many were hi-fiving MLK for that, but to be associated Bayard was a 'Danny DeVito head shaking no meme'

[@BB504_.]

Wow after 58 years I'm just learning about Bayard Rustin a lot of behind the scenes people don't get recognized May he rest in power

[@romanjohncarlos2368]

We have more in common than we don’t! Gay, straight, whatever, we are all human. Let’s put humanity first and live in peace and harmony!

[@akmartinez419]

Wonderful piece. I was brought here as a needed reference for a project, but I am going to go find the movie and watch it. People like Mr. Rustin help my soul, especially now.

[@steveconn]

MLK wasn't crazy about gay folk despite his civil rights legacy. Nice Bayard gets his story out.

[@joelbempah]

True but not that surprising based on the time period

[@hectorsmommy1717]

@@joelbempah And the fact that MLK was a minister in days when almost no Christian Church recognized gay members.

[@andyroo9381]

Religious people usually aren't tolerant of gay people.

[@Junkay2]

@@hectorsmommy1717It’s not really that simple. For many years, the black church has had a complex relationship the black church has had with homosexuality. Like many black pastors, I’m sure MLK always know Rustin was gay, but he likely took a “don’t ask don’t tell” approach as many black churches have done forever.

[@lizgichora6472]

Speaking truth to power, thankful for Bayard Rustin, thank you

[@jessicacox1514]

Thank you Jesus for Bayard Rustin.

[@KC-fs2ch]

Thanks, Michelle and Barack Obama, for bringing this forgotten and overlooked civil rights ICON story to light. Also, Trump can keep trying, but he will never be as charismatics and revered as Barack Obama

[@SheniceSays214]

I’m just glad that we’re hearing about the unknown vessels for change.

[@lilianaevora6680]

I saw the movie yesterday and I learned a lot about his character and life.. Thank you so much for your courage

[@MJo-ng4lj]

❤🎉 Rest in Paradise.

[@babybro70]

Beautiful Story

[@chaplain4046]

Coleman Domingo needs to win an Oscar!! He he great 🎉😊

[@BmbleB81]

I had never heard of him before until today when I watched the Netflix movie which was great!!

[@Romeroglesby]

I always had wonder when a famous person gets all the credits; when he/she didn’t do it alone.

[@gerardconti4605]

thank you Obama

[@Seekthetruth3000]

A truly divisive man.

[@nranderson778]

I had never heard of him until I watched the movie. The movie was so well done.

[@jeffreyyounger5772]

Bayard, l know little about the man . His story was remarkable.A powerful unsung hero.,of the civil rights movement!

[@cashmoney2898]

Civil rights should be a national Holiday. their are a lot of people who are not Black benefiting from the civil rights movement.

[@2KGrind09]

thank you for your service, Bayard Rustin 👏

[@roncave994]

I really enjoyed getting to know about this man who helped Dr. King behind the scenes... it just shows behind every great person there are great people lifting up balancing prepping and pushing people forward thank God for Barack and Michelle Obama.

[@markkozlowski3674]

And we have just gotten a new Speaker of the House of Representatives who filed an amicus brief in 2003 arguing in favor of the criminalization of consensual sexual acts between homosexuals.

[@streamdream4316]

He probably would have been Dr. King -- but he wasn't allowed to be "out" in front for obvious reasons. One kind of discrimination for another. Rustin's compulsory role at the center of the CRM presents a much-needed conversation that we still must have even today about the importance of equity, inclusion, representation and visibility. Definitely going to give this one a look.

[@MrFasikaH]

Bayard Rustin was CIA. Did he spy on King just like Ernest Withers? Of course he did. He lost all credibility in my book.

[@ZoraNH.dusttracks1891]

He may have been known as another notable figure, however; King more than likely would have still been just as notable. MLK was already doing the work of non-violence in the CRM and just like Rustin; he was also inspired by P. Randolph who initially presented the idea of a March on Washington in the 40s. You can’t speak about either men without discussing Randolph. I kind of question whether he even wanted to be in the position of King - I mean ultimately, all the men around King left Memphis alive. There are so many noteworthy individuals who have contributed to the CRM who are never discussed in these conversations - many of them being women. So, the conversation would still be incomplete if women continue to be left out of it. There were women who were also central to the strategy, organization, and mobilization of the March on Washington. However, despite their efforts were not given a platform to speak at the event and they are rarely credited. One woman was listed on the program to speak that day and the rest were men - including Rustin.

[@streamdream4316]

@@ZoraNH.dusttracks1891 What you said is very factual, very true. But conversely, it does downplay the marginalization of queer voices in the fight for Black Liberation, especially during the CRE, which is what I was pointing out. This wasn't to be divisive but to underscore how this form of intracommunal discrimination primarily rooted in our culture's views on religion exists to this day and can be counterproductive to attaining true equity. Even Randolph had to hide his reported non-belief in order to make a difference in the Movement. King even had to set aside his skepticism about certain tenets. But he was able to reach the people so well politically because he was also a great religious figure. The other organizers around him recognized that, so he was the right choice at the time to lead. But having someone like Rustin as a more vocal presence during that time would have undoubtedly changed history by empowering other queer Black leaders. This is not to take away from women like Dorothy Height, Fannie Lou Hamer, Mollie Moon, or the queer Black women whose stories have not been told. However, it is to say that our community has an issue with recognizing queerness, specifically when it comes to men and those who have transitioned away from maleness, and religious attitudes still play a part. I'm currently doing research on how religion continues to impact (or complicate) contemporary understandings of ethics and equity in this country (race as a factor), so I'm writing from that perspective.

[@SEVINN567]

Yesss! I wouldn’t have known anything about him if I hadn’t known someone who also worked closely with Dr. King and Mrs. King!!!

[@yvonneplant9434]

The new House Speaker would hate Rustin.

[@hummersd]

And yet the new speaker has an adopted black son who's only 11 years younger? Sounds like a Gaetz/Nestor situ that should be looked into since there's allegedly no paperwork. He doth protest too much...

[@yvonneplant9434]

@@hummersd Johnson would dislike Rustin because he was openly gay. Not because of his skin color.

[@catlover4479]

Probably would coerce him into seduction first, followed by suppressed hatred for both.

[@ryanamari2233]

I knew who he was …but watching Rustin on one of those streaming services was very profound

[@andyroo9381]

Gay men and women had to live in the shadows. If they were discovered, they would have lost everything and might have gone to jail for their "crime". This is why we do not know much about Mr. Bayard Rustin.

[@catlover4479]

Still do to a large degree. May we all embrace the love in our hearts by recognizing the unity and sameness of all humanity.

[@MrFasikaH]

Bayard Rustin was CIA. Did he spy on King just like Ernest Withers? Of course he did. He lost all credibility in my book.

[@ANGELSLVME]

I never knew!!! Just watched it on Netflix AWESOME

[@schawnettarobinson8584]

Powerful ❤❤❤ Dynamic 🎉🎉🎉

[@raquelevans5973]

It's a shame his name was never mentioned in history

[@janicenelson2990]

Thank you for educating a woman whom has been miseducated.

[@deolihp]

It is saddening how his sexuality prevented his achievements to be known at that time 😭

[@cashmoney2898]

I enjoy the film. I learn a lot.

[@SydneyChandler]

I'm so glad that Bayard Rustin is finally getting the recognition he deserves. He was the architect of the March on Washington and he was a integral part of the Civil Rights Movement. And the only reason he was but a mere footnote in history is because he was gay.

[@MrFasikaH]

Bayard Rustin was CIA. Did he spy on King just like Ernest Withers? Of course he did. He lost all credibility in my book.

[@MrFasikaH]

Bayard Rustin was CIA. Did he spy on King just like Ernest Withers? Of course he did. He lost all credibility in my book.

[@jewelofaries]

James Baldwin was gay and his involvement in the Civil Rights is well noted. I've known of Bayard Rustin since I was a child. My mama always said he was as sweet as peaches, but that he was a big part of the movement. I never even heard anyone of his LGBT community speak of him. Sad. God bless the Obama's for bringing his legacy to light. He deserves his flowers.

[@gabriaflowers8021]

Wow, I never knew that , you learn a lot since that happen 50’s years

[@lucindaarmstrong1162]

How do we lift up all people?

[@catlover4479]

By celebrating our similarities and understanding our differences ❤️.

[@Nightlight17]

@@catlover4479agreed!!

[@bigmikecvn71]

i love the movie,hoping to see Fannie lou hamer.

[@baloo_2228]

Absolutely beautiful. What a beautiful man.

[@alexforest1]

A American Hero.🎆

[@BGPromotionsInc]

This is real Good!!! 🥰

[@ninajohnson2295]

American black history need, should be told, taught in all schools, colleges. Today. So history doesn't repeat itself.

[@clarence9753]

Watched this movie last night 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@scamp2034]

Why Black History is American History and it Matters!

[@jameslawson6245]

From Protests to politics, That is what made it happen!

[@FirstLast-oz3vv]

🌸

[@2bleavin]

His sexuality had nothing to do with his greatness & everything to do with it being hidden, he literally majorly changed history

[@tinalou2u]

Excellent

[@Gary-v7j]

“Rustin is a credit to his race,the human race “.

[@stefonjackson2154]

Mentor Dr. King for the boycott. Worked with A. Phillph Randolph. Debated with Malcolm X at Howard U with Stokey Carmichael in the audience. Rustin is a legend! Good to see a movie about him.

[@xtradelite903]

Los Angeles has the largest GLBT+ Center in the world. At one of its buildings there is a metal memorial placard dedicated to Bayard Rustin. This news story was remiss in mentioning it.

[@jacquelynramsey2021]

Outstanding Activist!

[@mustaphabello8016]

I came to know him through his debate with Malcolm X

[@darienwilliams6070]

Mr. Rustin was a great man and prominent leader. We pick and choose who's marginalized. We're our race before sexuality 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@BOBTVNYC]

fyi Rustin did not convinced King to use non violence or encourage people to seek public office. Kings father as a preacher taught him to be non violent in his business.

[@shaunnapper9718]

Raul Hilberg, profound sentence, “…sought to transfer the struggle from a physical to an intellectual and moral plane…”🧐🤔

[@LeAndreWatts]

So they also produced “Leave The World Behind” 🧐

[@2012photograph]

I was not aware of him.

[@joshfactor1]

Well, that should be interesting; everyone loves strand

[@anaperezgonzalez4422]

❤❤

[@nickbarcheck1019]

Legend.

[@edicesingletary4902]

I knew about him.

[@loveyu2778]

Of course they wait until he's dead to acknowlede him with an award..😢

[@endigosun]

Here they go again… telling OUR STORY the way THEY wanna tell it. Sorry, but we’ll take it from here.

[@geraldjarvis2115]

I don't think they should be teaching any kind of history.

[@endigosun]

@@geraldjarvis2115 You're right... but it's a free country. So it's good that black people are beginning to accept and affirm OUR OWN narratives in our own circles.

[@DavidRoss-lo7kz]

Bayard Rustin was in the background because he was homosexual.. Bayard Rustin 1912-87

[@LEOMGREENE-AYALA-o2p]

IMPORTANT GAY MEN IN HISTORY. COMPUTER SCIENCES, ALAN TURING. GAY MENS CIVIL RIGHTS, BAYARD RUSTIN. GAY MENS POLITICAL JUSTICE, HARVEY MILK. GAY MENS MUSIC RIGHTS, MONTERO HILL. GAY MENS PROTAGONIST RIGHTS, DREAMWORKS STUDIOS, STUDIO MIR AND JOSH KEATON.