Community members gather to celebrate the legacy of civil rights activist Ruth Ann Butler.
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Sponsor Our ArticlesRuth Ann Butler, a key figure in the Greenville Civil Rights Movement, has died at 81. Butler dedicated her life to fighting racial injustice and founded the Greenville Cultural Exchange Center. Her legacy of activism continues to inspire future generations.
In a heartfelt moment for the Greenville community, civil rights activist Ruth Ann Butler has passed away at the age of 81 on January 15. Her family confirmed her death, which came after a long, challenging battle following an accidental fall that left her in a non-verbal state for several months. This loss has left many of her friends and supporters mourning the passing of a truly remarkable woman.
Ruth was not just a name; she was an icon in the Greenville Civil Rights Movement, tirelessly working to combat racial injustice and inequality. From her student days at the all-Black Sterling High School, where she was actively engaged in protesting and advocating for change, Ruth’s passion for civil rights blossomed.
Back in 1959, she made headlines by participating in a march protesting the unfair treatment of the legendary Jackie Robinson at the Greenville Downtown Airport. The following year, in 1960, Ruth took a stand against racial segregation in restaurants by joining in lunch counter sit-ins at iconic establishments like Woolworth’s. Her efforts were part of a larger movement that aimed to ensure everyone, regardless of skin color, had an equal seat at the table.
Ruth was the founder of the Greenville Cultural Exchange Center, established in 1987. This institution became a beacon for educational resources and historical understanding, dedicated to celebrating and promoting the contributions of Black individuals in the Upstate region. Housed in a building previously known as the Austin Music Academy, the center hosted exhibits on significant Black leaders and pivotal historical figures from the Greenville area.
The center was more than just an educational facility; it became a hub for the community to come together, learn about their heritage, and promote economic empowerment. It played a crucial role in raising awareness about the immense contributions of Black Americans in the region and served as a valuable resource for research and historical preservation.
Ruth’s efforts have left an indelible mark on the community. Her dedication helped to save the Urban League of the Upstate, preventing its closure during tough financial times. She was admired for her leadership and commitment to education, especially in preserving the rich history of African Americans in Greenville.
In a wonderful continuation of her legacy, plans are underway to reopen the Cultural Exchange Center as part of the new South Carolina Empowerment & History Museum project by the summer of 2025. This new cultural hub will feature “The Ruth Ann Butler Collection,” which will be filled with historical artifacts, documents, and photographs related to Black history, carefully managed to ensure Ruth’s spirit continues to inspire future generations.
Ruth was not only pivotal in local activism but also worked on the Rev. Jesse Jackson’s presidential campaign and earned recognition for her contributions through the South Carolina Stewardship Award in 2024. Her life was a blend of activism, education, and community service that leaves a profound legacy.
As the community comes together to honor the memory of Ruth Ann Butler, funeral arrangements have yet to be announced. Friends, family, and admirers will undoubtedly gather to celebrate the life of a woman who spent her years dedicated to the cause of equality and justice. Ruth’s spirit will forever remain a part of Greenville’s tapestry, inspiring countless individuals to carry forward the fight for civil rights.
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