Welcome to the Du Bois Freedom Center!
“Education must not simply teach work—it must teach life.” - W.E.B. Du Bois
Our Mission
The mission of the W.E.B. Du Bois Center for Freedom and Democracy is to educate the public about the life and legacy of civil rights pioneer W.E.B. Du Bois and the rich African American heritage of the Berkshires.
Located at the former Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church in Great Barrington, where he was born and raised, this vibrant center of Black thought and remembrance constitutes the first museum and living memorial in North America dedicated to Du Bois’ life and legacy.
We are building more than a memorial — a living space for reflection, scholarship, and cultural exchange. Together with our community, we are establishing the premier institution advancing Du Bois' vision and connecting Great Barrington to national and global conversations on democracy, freedom, and equity.
Visit Us
Our Visitor History Center is located at 309 Main Street, Great Barrington. We welcome visitors on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday during our regular office hours, from 11AM to 3PM.
You are welcome to book a time to come visit with us outside of our regular hours. Please reach out to us at office@duboisfreedomcenter.org to schedule your visit.
The Mite Society Children's Reading Group
Join Us for Our Inaugural Mite Society Gathering
Celebrating the Life, Legacy and Story of Elizabeth Freeman
Inspired by a 140-year legacy, the new Mite Society is a welcoming, intergenerational space where children and families can come together to explore African American history, culture, and storytelling.
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Sunday, October 25th, 2026
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Starts at 1:00 PM
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DFC Visitor Center309 Main Street, Great Barrington
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Parents, Grandparents & School GroupsChildren 8 and up
Presenting Elizabeth Freeman: Reimagined!
A unique exhibit of student-led works celebrating the life, story, and legacy of Elizabeth Freeman
Learn About the Exhibit
Art: Abby Glover, Massachusetts College of Art and Design
Watch on Instagram
DFC Fall
Walking Tour
Honoring the life, legacy, and rich Black history of W.E.B. Du Bois and the Berkshires, our guided tours explore the stories, places, and people that shaped him and this region.
Admission
$25 General Adult $15 Students & Seniors (65+) Free Children under 10
After leading the Center as Interim Executive Director since early 2025, Dr. John D. Lloyd has been named Executive Director. He will continue to guide the Center's strategic initiatives, strengthen its partnerships, and advance the life and legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois in his hometown.
Experience : Over two decades of leadership in the nonprofit sector
Education : Doctorate in Organizational Learning and Development, University of Pennsylvania
Teaching : Adjunct faculty, Bentley University
Dr. John D. Lloyd Named Executive Director of the Du Bois Freedom Center
“The W. E. B. Du Bois Center for Freedom and Democracy presents a singular opportunity to reclaim and extend in Du Bois’ hometown, the Black intellectual, artistic traditions, and social movements to which he dedicated his life’s work.”
—David Levering Lewis, Pulitzer Prize-winning Du Bois Biographer