On a heartbreaking day for Memphis and for history, Clayborn Temple—an icon of the Civil Rights Movement—was tragically lost to fire. This historic church was far more than bricks and stained glass; it was a meeting ground for courage, a sanctuary of resistance, and a symbol of unwavering hope.

Originally built in 1892, Clayborn Temple became a pivotal landmark during the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike. It was there that thousands gathered, stood tall, and marched forward with signs that declared, “I Am A Man.” Within those walls, generations were inspired to demand dignity, equality, and justice—not only for Memphis but for the world.

The loss of the physical building is heavy. But the spirit of Clayborn Temple—the voices that echoed through its halls, the bravery it nurtured, and the unity it stood for—will never be extinguished. We remember it not only as a piece of our city’s past, but as a living legacy that continues to light the path toward justice.

“You can burn the building, but not the movement.”

Let us honor Clayborn Temple by remembering its role, sharing its story, and embodying the values it stood for.