Welcome to the Du Bois Freedom Center!
“Education must not simply teach work—it must teach life.” - W.E.B. Du Bois
Our Mission
The mission of the W.E.B. Du Bois Center for Freedom and Democracy is to educate the public about the life and legacy of civil rights pioneer W.E.B. Du Bois and the rich African American heritage of the Berkshires.
Located at the former Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church in Great Barrington, where he was born and raised, this vibrant center of Black thought and remembrance constitutes the first museum and living memorial in North America dedicated to Du Bois’ life and legacy.
We are building more than a memorial — a living space for reflection, scholarship, and cultural exchange. Together with our community, we are establishing the premier institution advancing Du Bois' vision and connecting Great Barrington to national and global conversations on democracy, freedom, and equity.
Visit Us
Stop by our Visitor Center on weekdays, or book a time that works for you.
New Programs at the Center
Three new ways to learn, gather, and grow with us.
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Coming soonCivic Engagement
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New Launch -
Coming soonIntern with Us
Scholar Series · Inaugural Event
Honoring Shirley Graham Du Bois
A virtual Scholar Talk celebrating the life and legacy of Shirley Graham Du Bois (1896–1977) on what would have been her 130th birthday, with the editors of Shirley Graham Du Bois: Artist, Activist, and Author in the African Diaspora.
Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church
Free Field Trip · Grades 5–8
Walk where Du Bois grew up
Learning with W.E.B. Du Bois: students explore the Du Bois exhibit, walk the historic sites, and learn how to take action in their own community.
- WHEN
- October – November 15, 2026
9:00 AM – 12:15 PM - WHERE
- 309 Main St. Visitor Center
Great Barrington, MA 01230 - GUIDE
Marcus P. Smith
DFC Deputy Director & UMass Amherst PhD student- COST
- Free for schools
in participating towns*
*This program is funded in part by grants from the Alford–Egremont, Great Barrington, Lee, Lenox, Monterey, Mount Washington, New Marlborough, Otis, Sandisfield, Sheffield, Stockbridge, Tyringham and West Stockbridge Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Events
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News
Read the latest
Tours
Book a tour
“The W. E. B. Du Bois Center for Freedom and Democracy presents a singular opportunity to reclaim and extend in Du Bois’ hometown, the Black intellectual, artistic traditions, and social movements to which he dedicated his life’s work.”
—David Levering Lewis, Pulitzer Prize-winning Du Bois Biographer
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