Changing the World One Venue at a Time
Sammy Davis Jr. was fully aware of the blatant racism going on in America during the 60s. After experiencing the extent of racism in the army and in Hollywood, he became an avid financial supporter of the Civil Rights Movements. During the height of his popularity, Sammy refused to perform anywhere that was racially segregated.
Frank Sinatra with Joe Bishop, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Peter Lawford. Photo by Globe Photos / Shutterstock
Thanks to his decision, venues from Las Vegas to Miami started to loosen their rules and practice integration. Sammy’s passion for racial equality got him inducted in the Hall of Fame of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Plus, he earned honorary degrees from predominantly black colleges. Now that’s impressive, especially during that era.