Marian Anderson and the DAR
The Daughters of the American Revolution proudly practices a non-discrimination policy and encourages and celebrates diversity in our organization. However, in 1939, opera singer Marian Anderson was denied the opportunity to perform in DAR Constitution Hall because of her race. She subsequently performed an historic concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to a crowd of 75,000 people. Afterwards, the DAR recognized the need for change and Marian Anderson sang at Constitution Hall on a number of occasions. Learn more about the relationship between Marian Anderson and the DAR, and our organization’s on-going efforts to honor her memory through information found in this section including a statement, performance history, resources and photos from commemorative events.
Marian Anderson: The Whole World in Her Hands
Watch the American Masters Marian Anderson documentary on PBS which premiered February 8, 2022.
Voice of Freedom: Turbulent Times Turned an Artist into a Hero
Watch the American Experience Marian Anderson documentary on PBS which premiered February 15, 2021.
- As PBS Shares Marian Anderson’s Legacy in New Documentary on Feb. 15, Daughters of the American Revolution Embrace Enduring Bond with Her(DAR News Release - February 9, 2021)
- Embracing our Enduring Bond with Marian Anderson (Today's DAR Blog - January 11, 2021)
- Next Week's Marian Anderson PBS Documentary Features NSDAR Archives Research (Today's DAR Blog - February 11, 2021)