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Ribbon Cutting For Rev. Linton Barbershop Plaza

Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Opening of Rev. Linton Barbershop Plaza

New Plaza Honors Civil Rights Legacy and Creates a Community Space for Reflection, Gathering, and Dialogue

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Community leaders, supporters, and residents will gather on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. for the official ribbon cutting and grand opening of the Rev. Linton Barbershop Plaza, located at 1305 T.Y. Rogers Jr. Avenue, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401.

The celebration marks a major milestone, coming one year after the plaza’s groundbreaking and the beginning of a community effort to create a permanent space dedicated to the people whose courage and commitment helped shape Tuscaloosa’s Civil Rights Movement.

Named in honor of Rev. Thomas Linton and his historic barbershop that was also a Civil Rights museum with his personal ephemera collection, the plaza recognizes not only Reverend Linton’s leadership and influence, but also the countless foot soldiers, activists, faith leaders, educators, business owners, and community members whose collective efforts advanced the cause of justice and equality in Tuscaloosa.

The Rev. Linton Barbershop Plaza is envisioned as more than a memorial. It is a gathering place where residents and visitors can reflect on the past, learn from history, and engage in meaningful conversations about the future. The plaza serves as a reminder of those who came before us, a recognition of those who continue the work today, and an invitation for future generations to help shape the path forward.

“This plaza stands as a tribute to the men and women who helped bring about change in our community,” said Tim Lewis, co-president of the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Foundation. “It honors their sacrifices, preserves their stories, and creates a place where people can come together to remember, reflect, and recommit themselves to building a stronger community.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will include remarks from community leaders, project supporters, and individuals connected to the Civil Rights Movement, followed by the official opening of the plaza.

Members of the public are invited to attend.

Event Details

What: Ribbon Cutting and Official Opening of Rev. Linton Barbershop Plaza
When: Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Where: 1305 T.Y. Rogers Jr. Avenue, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Who: Community leaders, residents, project supporters, and members of the public

Premiere Award-Winning "Movement of Champions"

Thursday, October 15, 2026, 6:00 pm, Historic Bama Theatre, 600 Greensboro Avenue, Tuscaloosa

Watch the official premiere of the award-winning short documentary “Movement of Champions.” The film honors the students, faith leaders, business leaders, and citizens who challenged segregation in Tuscaloosa. Through stories of key events and courageous action, the film celebrates unsung heroes whose legacy continues to inspire justice, equality, and community transformation today. The documentary was made possible in part through a grant from the Alabama Humanities Alliance. Proceeds from the premiere event will benefit the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights History & Reconciliation Foundation and support its educational programming, preservation initiatives, and community outreach efforts. The event will have on hand members of the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Foundation as well as several foot soldiers from the movement. VIP Reception tickets available as well as student/senior prices and general admission.

Tickets: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36768/production/1290787?performanceId=11870804

Trailer: https://youtu.be/MVxF9-Lou9E?si=_2HC1Zva3hfHDV7P

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1453259570108238/