Timeline: 1937

Van’s Barber Shop was established in the basement at 29 Main Street in Champaign, occupying the same space as Civil War veteran John Moss’ barbershop the 1800s. Owned by Mr. Van Thompson, Van’s Barbershop operated into the 1970s.

Civil Rights Union and American Student Union circulated petitions protesting discrimination by campus restaurants and Champaign-Urbana theaters.

Students brought suit against Hanley-Lewis Confectionery for discriminating against African Americans. Case was decided in favor of confectionery.

University of Illinois’ Student Senate addressed discrimination issue.