Built in 1920 and rebuilt in 1932 following a fire, the Imperial Theater was the object of civil rights picketers. Although seating capacity was 950, it was not available to everyone. The advent of neighborhood theaters contributed to the demise of this Charlotte landmark with its moorish temple decor. The doors closed in May 1964. War, nuclear power and busing are still topics of active debate.
Civil protests can involve multiple generations, thus imposing values and ideas on the future.
Following the landmark Swann v. Charlotte Board of Education decision, parents and children marched in front of the home of Judge James McMillan, protesting busing. Current school board members continue to work for fair and equal pupil assignment. Charlotte s primary source of electrical energy is McGuire Nuclear Station on Lake Norman. Thousands gathered on Mecklenburg Independence Day to greet President Gerald Ford and exercise their freedom of speech in protest of social injustices. However, fair pay and working conditions often prompt controversy.