Jim Zwerg, Freedom Rider, 1961

Jim Zwerg — an example of a courageous white Christian man, is remembered as an impressive figure in the Civil Rights Movement. Born in Appleton, Wisconsin, Zwerg grew up in a middle-class family and attended Beloit College. There, he became deeply involved in the fight for racial equality.

In 1961, Zwerg joined the Freedom Rides, a movement organized by the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) to challenge segregation in interstate bus travel across the southern United States. The Freedom Riders, a racially diverse group, rode buses together into the Deep South, confronting brutal opposition from white supremacists and segregationists.

On May 20, 1961, in Montgomery, Alabama, Jim Zwerg and his fellow Freedom Riders faced a violent mob intent on maintaining segregation. The bus station erupted in chaos as white supremacists attacked the group. Zwerg stood firmly, knowing full well the risk he was taking.

As he stepped off the bus, Zwerg was immediately targeted. Despite the immense fear he must have felt, he remained resolute. The mob beat him mercilessly, smashing his face and body with fists, pipes, and rocks. Zwerg's injuries were severe; he was left unconscious and bloodied, and his teeth shattered. Photographs of Zwerg's battered face became potent symbols of the violent resistance faced by white “folks” fighting for civil rights.

Zwerg’s unwavering spirit and dedication to justice became even more evident in the hospital. Though broken physically, his determination was unyielding. He later said, "My faith was never so strong as during that time. I knew I was doing what I should be doing." His bravery and the graphic images of his beatings drew national attention, highlighting the deep-seated racism and violence that the Freedom Riders were working to dismantle.

Zwerg's actions and those of his fellow Freedom Riders were key in bringing about change. Their bravery helped to galvanize broader public opinion and push forward the Civil Rights Movement, eventually leading to significant victories such as the desegregation of interstate travel facilities.

Jim Zwerg’s story is a powerful reminder for all white people who have the strength of solidarity, courage, and faith of spirit to be able to stand alongside Black people in the face of hatred and brutality by other bigoted whites. Despite the personal cost, his commitment to justice and equality inspires generations to fight