Join us for a self-guided tour of Pauli Murray's childhood home. Explore both the outdoor and indoor exhibits, highlighting the themes of identity, activism, and love. Staff and volunteers will be on site to help answer questions and welcome you to the space. Self-guided tours are $10 for a standard ticket, but pay-what-you-can pricing is available. Reservations are recommended but not required. Please note that it is easier for us to take credit card payments in advance, rather than at the door.

Join us for our Pauli Murray Birthday Celebration this November to explore our inaugural exhibit at no cost!

We're hosting a festival-style celebration on our front lawn featuring vendors, community partners, and more! Gemynii will be offering a D.J. set and we're welcoming some folks from the Durham Queer Circus to re-create some of Pauli's acrobatic photographs at 12 noon.

Stop by the Pauli Murray Center tent to purchase exclusive Pauli Murray Center merch (also available on our website).

Join poet and scholar Cameron Awkward-Rich, PhD (Associate Professor, University of Massachusetts, Amherst), in conversation with author and scholar Alexis Pauline Gumbs, PhD (NHC Fellow 2020-21). Awkward-Rich will read from his new volume of poetry, An Optimism (Persea Books, October 2025), an exploration of becoming and identity that highlights Black, trans and other minoritized forms of life. Followed by a conversation between Awkward-Rich and Gumbs, two crucial voices in public and creative dialogue about being together in this fraught moment. 

This event is free and open the to public, but donations are greatly appreciated to help offset the cost of hors d'oeuvresv and drinks. RSVP's are required by 12 noon on November 11th to reserve your spot.

This event is co-hosted by the National Humanities Center and the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice.

Be the first to see The Pauli Murray: The Animated Miniseries, a two-part youth-centered project that brings Pauli’s story to life through vibrant animation and creative storytelling.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with members of the creative team behind the series. Come learn how this project honors Pauli’s vision and continues their legacy of justice, imagination, and community. Registration is recommended, but not required! Sign up here.

Guided by the scent storytellers of Bright Black, experience the scent of three flowers—marigold, rose and magnolia. Learn how these three botanicals evoke the essence of the Durham neighborhood Pauli grew up in and symbolize the richness of faith, optimism, stability, resilience, hope and strength that Pauli’s commitment to community fully embodied. All participants will make a custom botanical body fragrance inspired by your own stories and the values that Pauli embodied, as well as receive a Pauli Murray mini candle.

Get tickets here: https://gardens.duke.edu/event/botanical-scent-storytelling-pauli-murray/

Join Preservation Durham and the Pauli Murray Center on this 1.5-hour bus tour, where attendees will learn more about the importance of built space for the protection, celebration, and community building within the LGBTQ+ community in Durham. The tour will include two outside excursions: to the Sarah P. Duke Gardens to visit the Stormie Daie mural and to the Pauli Murray Mural on 1101 W. Chapel Street.

Participants will then visit the Pauli Murray Center for an opportunity to visit the Fitzgerald House for a self-guided tour of the center and its exhibits. This will include a social component with light snacks and beverages.

Get tickets here: https://www.preservationdurham.org/queerhistorytour

Join the Pauli Murray Center and Whistle Stop Tours for our interactive exploration of Pauli Murray's family and West End history. This opportunity is a 90-minute, 1-square-mile walking tour where you will visit 6 historic stops and be inspired by Pauli Murray and the Fitzgerald family's legacy in Durham. This walking tour is considered a 'deep dive' from our standard home tours!*

This specialized experience will only be offered twice a year! Advance registration is required and space is limited.

*Note that this tour doesn't include access to the inside of Pauli Murray's childhood home. To explore inside, please visit us for a guided tour or Open Saturday.

Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/roots-and-soul-walking-with-pauli-murray-tickets-1722727928609?aff=oddtdtcreator

Walk in the Footsteps of Pauli Murray

Each year, the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice invites our community to join us on a meaningful pilgrimage through four sites that shaped Pauli’s life, including their childhood home, high school, church, and library.

The full route covers 4.5 miles, with a shorter 1-mile option available for those who prefer it. Along the way, participants will have time for both collective and personal reflection on Pauli’s legacy. At each stop, we’ll share stories, artifacts, and archives that highlight Pauli’s lasting connection to these places.

This is a free event, and people of all spiritual backgrounds are welcome. Advance registration is required. Learn more and sign up here: https://www.ticketsource.com/.../pauli-murray.../e-xoxxqb

Join the NCBF Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Committee and the North Carolina Bar Foundation on for a Name Change Clinic.

Individuals will have an opportunity to meet with attorneys and legal professionals to discuss and/or begin the name change process. Appointments are required. Sign up here -> https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0F4BADAB28A7FC1-56524459-name#/

Looking to dive a little deeper into Pauli Murray's life and legacy? Join members of our staff and board for this 5-session course. It will meet September 10th, September 24th, October 8th, October 22nd, and November 5th. Each 1-hour session will dive into a different aspect of Pauli's life and identity with time for questions and reflections along the way. Suggested reading will also be offered, but not required! Topics for the 2025 sessions will be:

• An Introduction to Pauli Murray

• Pauli in Community

• Murray's Intersectional Identities

• Pauli Murray in the Civil Rights Movement

and more!

Sessions will be held every other Wednesday night for 5 weeks.

The Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice opened its doors to the public on September 7, 2024 after nearly 10 years. We're excited to celebrate the anniversary of this historic day with two opportunities to celebrate the Center.

Family-led Guided Tour - 10 AM and 11 AM start times

We're excited to offer a unique tour of Pauli Murray's childhood home through the lens of direct descendants of Pauli Murray! Rosita Stevens-Holsey (Pauli's niece) and Ria Aiken (Pauli's grand niece) will speak about their memories and experiences of their incredible ancestor. As a specialized one-time tour opportunity, registration is required and limited subsidized tickets are available. Click here for tickets.

Drop in Celebration - 12 PM - 3 PM

A drop in celebration will follow the family-led tours from 12 - 3 PM at the Pauli Murray Center! If you haven't had a chance to explore our exhibit this year, we'd love to welcome you to this free community celebration. Cupcakes will even be available for the first 50 guests! Registration is not required, but if you'd like to make a donation click here.

Destiny Hemphill is a chronically ill ritual worker and poet, living on the unceded territory of the Eno-Occaneechi band of the Saponi Nation (Durham, NC). She is a 2025 National Endowment for the Arts Creative Writing Fellow and has received other fellowships for her poetry from Naropa University’s Summer Writing Program, Callaloo, Tin House, Kenyon Review's Writers Workshop, and Torch Literary. She is a co-editor for Poetry as Spellcasting (North Atlantic Books 2023) and the author of the poetry collection motherworld: a devotional for the alter-life (Action Books, 2023), which was a finalist for the National Poetry Series Award, Lambda Literary Award, and Publishing Triangle's Audre Lorde Prize. Her work has also been featured in Poetry Magazine, Southern Cultures, and the Academy of American Poets' Poem-a-Day series. She served as an inaugural Poetry Coalition Fellow, a Kenan Visiting Writer in Poetry at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, and an inaugural Tin House Reading Fellow.

What if writing could be a way back to joy? A spark of courage? A practice of dreaming toward freedom? 
Join us for a half-day generative writing workshop inspired by the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray!
We’ll gather in community to write, reflect, and share—through two creative sessions shaped by:

• Courage and Joy as Resistance – Telling the story that lingers at the edge of your voice. Writing the joy that keeps you going.

• Imagination and Worldbuilding – Dreaming new worlds into being

The afternoon includes co-writing sessions, thoughtful prompts, reflection circles, and warm cups of tea and coffee facilitated by Destiny Hemphill. You’ll also be invited to contribute to a collaborative community zine if you wish! No writing experience needed! Just bring a notebook, a pen, and your full self!

Registration is required as space is limited. Sign up at tinyurl.com/pmctours

Join St. Titus and the Pauli Murray Center for a service to commemorate the life and work of the Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray at Pauli’s childhood church. This annual service includes an original liturgy and a choir drawn from across the city. It draws an incredibly diverse group to a historically African American church and has become a beloved annual event for many people. While this is a Christian Episcopal service, all are welcome to attend!

Can't make it in person? Stream the service live from the St. Titus Facebook page!

IMPORTANT: Note that this is a 4 week series taking place every Monday in July from 7-8 PM!

Join us for a free, four-week small group series exploring the spiritual legacy of The Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray. Guided by the True Community Christian Education Curriculum from the Pauli Murray Center, this gathering will invite participants to reflect on Dr. Murray’s profound spiritual and social impact—through their own words, experiences, and insights. Whether you're considering this curriculum for your faith community or simply want to explore Pauli Murray’s spirituality more deeply, this small group is a meaningful place to begin.

Whether you're looking for a welcoming space to co-work, explore our free self-guided tours, or simply relax and connect, we’ve got a spot for you. Come hang out and visit our incredible space —everyone’s welcome!

While there is no fee required for visiting with us, we do recommend a donation of between $2 - $20. As a private nonprofit, we rely on your support to keep our doors open!

Whether you're looking for a welcoming space to co-work, explore our free self-guided tours, or simply relax and connect, we’ve got a spot for you. Come hang out and visit our incredible space —everyone’s welcome!

While there is no fee required for visiting with us, we do recommend a donation of between $2 - $20. As a private nonprofit, we rely on your support to keep our doors open!

Registration Required: Sign up here -> https://register.humanities.unc.edu/

The Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray earned an impressive list of titles. In addition to reverend (ordained Episcopal priest) and doctor (PhD in Juridical Science), Murray was a multiracial Black attorney, poet, scholar, activist, author, presidential appointee, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Little wonder we need three presenters to even begin to address Murray’s impact!  Join us to learn about an archaeological survey of Murray’s childhood home in Durham, now the site of the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice. The Center’s staff will tell us how they carry on Murray’s commitment to justice and activism, and we’ll learn how K-12 teachers are inspired to bring Murray’s work into their classrooms.  

SPEAKERS

Anna Agbe-Davies, Associate Professor of Anthropology 

Anjalique Knight, Director of Education and Outreach, Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice 

Cori Greer-Banks, Director, Carolina K-12 

DETAILS 

DATE & TIME: Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 10:00 am – 1:30 pm 

COST: Free and open to the public – Advance registration required.  

LOCATION: The Drakeford Library Complex, Carrboro, NC 

Light refreshments will be served. 

Join us for a special evening under the stars with a free outdoor screening of My Name is Pauli Murray — right on the lawn of Pauli’s childhood home!

🗓️ Date: Friday, 6/13 at 8 PM

📍 Location: Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice 906 Carroll Street | Durham, NC

Bring a blanket or lawn chair, kick back, and experience this powerful, thought-provoking film in a place rich with history. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks — and we’ll have fresh popcorn available for just $2 a bag (cash or check only)!

📽️ Film rating: PG-13

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Come early to grab a good spot — we can't wait to see you there!

Celebrate the life and legacy of Pauli Murray, trailblazing activist, lawyer, and writer in this virtual program. Known for their pioneering work in civil rights and gender equality, we explore how their identity as a queer, gender non-conforming person intersected with their fight for justice and groundbreaking contributions to social change.

Presented by Kristin Hauser, M.Div, Communications and Programming Coordinator of the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice

PLEASE NOTE: This event is coordinated by Wake County Libraries. Please sign up through this link to receive the Zoom invitation! https://wakegov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_N033f7bGQtSH2FLIYf_G7Q

Whether you're looking for a welcoming space to co-work, explore our free self-guided tours, or simply relax and connect, we’ve got a spot for you. Come hang out and visit our incredible space —everyone’s welcome!

While there is no fee required for visiting with us, we do recommend a donation of between $2 - $20. As a private nonprofit, we rely on your support to keep our doors open!

We're excited to open up our space for local artists to create and dream inside Pauli Murray's childhood home. This opportunity will include space for reflection and ideation with other artists, as well as plenty of time to work on your personal project. Artists of all kinds are welcome!

Advanced registration is required for this opportunity and space fills up quickly!

This opportunity is full. Please sign up for the waiting list here: https://forms.gle/zam7bjfsrNsmwfVSA

Whether you're looking for a welcoming space to co-work, explore our free self-guided tours, or simply relax and connect, we’ve got a spot for you. Come hang out and visit our incredible space —everyone’s welcome!

While there is no fee required for visiting with us, we do recommend a donation of between $2 - $20. As a private nonprofit, we rely on your support to keep our doors open!

Join the NCBF Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Committee and the North Carolina Bar Foundation on for a Name Change Clinic.

Individuals will have an opportunity to meet with attorneys and legal professionals to discuss and/or begin the name change process. Appointments are required. Sign up here -> https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0F4BADAB28A7FC1-56524459-name#/

✨Join us for Drag Story Hour with Stormie Daie✨

Stormie will share stories of activism, resilience, and some of Pauli Murray’s own writings! This event is free, but advanced registration is required. Reserve your space at the link below.

https://www.ticketsource.us/pauli-murray-center-for-history-and-social-justice/drag-story-hour/e-kzvbky

Welcome to Whistle Stop Tours at the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice in Durham, North Carolina! This specialized tour experience is an excellent ‘deep dive’ for folks who have attended our tours of Pauli’s childhood home or a first introduction to the Fitzgerald family for visitors who have not been to the Pauli Murray Center before.

Walking Tours with the Pauli Murray Center is a 90-minute, 1-square-mile tour around the historic West End Neighborhood of Durham. Tour-goers will visit 6 stops and be inspired by Pauli Murray's legacy and the unique contributions of the Fitzgerald family to the educational, economic, and cultural fabric of Durham.

Join us for an enriching journey through history as you explore the remarkable life and legacy of Pauli Murray, a trailblazing civil rights activist, lawyer, and Episcopal priest.

You will delve into the vibrant history of Durham and its pivotal role in the civil rights movement, as our knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into Murray's groundbreaking work and the social justice issues of Murray’s time.

Discover the incredible stories behind Murray's contributions to gender equality, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ rights, and gain a deeper understanding of the impact Murray had on American society.

Whether you're a history buff, a social justice advocate, or simply curious about Durham's rich cultural heritage, our Whistle Stop Tours offer something for everyone. Come be inspired, educated, and empowered as we celebrate the legacy of Pauli Murray and the ongoing fight for equality and justice for all. Book your tour today and join us on this unforgettable journey!

Bring your walking shoes and PLENTY of water.

For the safety and enjoyment of all participants on the tour, please be advised that the tour route includes two moderate hills (one ascending and one descending), limited public sidewalks, and uneven ground. Walking and standing in the heat/sunlight can cause dehydration, heat sensitivity or physical limitations.

Bring your curiosities; move and create with us!

These public tours are scheduled from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM once in the fall and once in the spring. Our spring tour will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025!

Registration link can be found here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/roots-and-soul-walking-with-pauli-murray-tickets-1302336185589?aff=oddtdtcreator

We're excited to offer a free drop in community day on Saturday, April 12th! Pauli Murray's childhood home will be open to the public from 10 AM - 2 PM for anyone to drop in and explore. Members of our staff will be on site to answer any questions you may have. Registration is not required and entry is completely free!

This opportunity is graciously sponsored by Durham LibraryFest.

This session introduces the life and legacy of Pauli Murray, a pioneering writer, lawyer, activist, and Durhamite whose work shaped civil rights and gender equality, with a special focus on Murray's authorship. Lead by Angela Thorpe Mason, Executive Director of the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice.

This event is free and open to the public! Registration is appreciated but not required.

This tour opportunity will be hosted by our Executive Director, Angela Thorpe Mason, and will focus on key pieces of Pauli Murray's life and legacy in the Women's movement. Visitors will be guided through the interior exhibit and historic space, and time for questions and interactive reflection will be included in the time spent together.

Advanced registration is required and space is limited!

Pauli Murray, the first black female-perceived person to be ordained an Episcopal priest, has much to share with us about how to show up as spiritual beings in the world. Throughout the day, we’ll explore three powerful themes from Murray’s theological and prophetic work:

• Prophetic Truth-Telling

• Dignity and Resistance in the Face of Struggle & Oppression

• Transformation, Hope, and Renewal

This reflective experience will include personal time for quiet reflection, an opportunity to explore the exhibits, and small group discussions. Coffee and light snacks will be available throughout the day.

This event is pay-what-you-can and open to all. Please consider giving generously to help support our ongoing work.

While the day is grounded in Pauli Murray's Christian prophetic and theological lens, people of all faiths and backgrounds are warmly invited to participate.

ADVANCED REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND SPACE IS LIMITED.

Join us for the inaugural Pauli Murray Dog Walk—a celebration of Pauli Murray's love for their furry friends and a day of walking in solidarity for social justice!
We’ll be strolling through the beautiful West End, raising support for social justice programming at the Pauli Murray Center. It’s a perfect opportunity for both humans and dogs to unite for a great cause. 🐕💙
Do you have a pup with a passion for justice? Bring them along for this paws-itively special day! 🐾✨
No dog? No problem! You can still participate with our ‘lone human’ rates and a “stand-in” foam dog by your side. 
While the route will be ​roughly ​a mile walk, folks are welcome and encouraged to go at their own pace and complete whatever portion of the route feels right for them. All participants will receive a Pauli Murray bandana and a free self-guided tour of Pauli Murray's childhood home!

While this is a fundraising event and an opportunity to invest in an incredible historic space, it’s important to us that everyone is able to participate. If finances are preventing you and your pup from coming out on March 15th, reach out to us about mutual aid opportunities. We’d love to see how we can help one another!