“Education must not simply teach work—it must teach life.”
Welcome to the Du Bois Freedom Center for Freedom and Democracy
Our Mission
The Du Bois Freedom Center’s mission is to educate the public about the life and legacy of civil rights pioneer W.E.B. Du Bois and to celebrate the Berkshires’ rich Black heritage.
Located at the historic Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church in Great Barrington, MA, where Du Bois was born and raised, this vibrant center of Black thought and remembrance stands as the first museum and living memorial in North America dedicated to his life and legacy.
We stand at historic crossroads, honoring Du Bois’ enduring legacy while shaping the future of public education, scholarship, and social justice.
At The Du Bois Freedom Center, we are building more than a museum—the Center is a living space for reflection, learning, and cultural exchange. Together with our community, we are establishing the Du Bois Freedom Center as the premier institution advancing Du Bois’ vision and connecting Great Barrington to national and global conversations on democracy, freedom, and equity. We invite you to join us.
EVENTS
NEWS
TOURS
Visit Us at 309 Main Street
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday | 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Come Walk With Us!
Take a Tour and Discover History Beneath Your Feet
Du Bois Freedom Center Resident Historian Marcus Smith Honored with the 2026 Mars History Tellers Award
Mars and AMERICAN HERITAGE Chocolate, Marcus Smith is the 2026 History Tellers Award Winner.
“It was a unanimous decision by our selection committee—Marcus and his work inspired everyone.”
Marcus Smith, DFC’s Resident Historian who puts the “story” in History!
Give Today &
Preserve History
“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