As I undertake the mission of surveying the John M. O’Neal papers for processing, I discovered some interesting historical treasures. The John M. O’Neal papers consist of 30 linear feet and document O’Neal’s artistic style and vision as an actor, director, playwright, community and civil rights activist. One finding is the working notes for the development of the Free Southern Theater, which includes the general plan for the theater group, project planning and other writings related to theater productions. O’Neal founded the Free Southern Theater in 1965 as the cultural and educational arm of the Southern Civil Rights Movement. His philosophy is that politics and art are complementary, not opposing terms, and his work has taken him to perform for audiences throughout North America and Europe.
Another discovery is a signed letter from Coretta Scott King and Yolanda King inviting O’Neal to join the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Center’s Institute on Cultural Affairs (ICA) through membership on the Advisory Committee. ICA was one of the ten institutes of the King Center, which sought to use the power of the arts to advance the teachings and methods of Dr. King for nonviolent social change throughout the world community. Mrs. King asked O’Neal to serve as a national and international advocate for the ICA. Members of the committee included artist from a variety of disciplines as well as supporters of the arts. The letter is dated December 17, 1982.
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