On July 14, 1964, activist Percy Green climbed 125 feet up the then-under construction Gateway Arch to protest the lack of African Americans working on the project. Green will meet the public and sign commemorative posters honoring his historic protest on Sunday, July 14 from 2-5 p.m. and Tuesday, July 16 from 1-3 p.m. in the Arch’s tram lobby.

“We are pleased to honor Mr. Green on the 55th anniversary of his climb, and we welcome the opportunity to host conversations about justice and equality in the past and present, which are important themes in the exhibit galleries in the Museum at the Gateway Arch and the Old Courthouse,” said Erin Hilligoss-Volkmann, director of education at Gateway Arch National Park. “Education about the topics of inclusion and cultural diversity is central to our mission.”

Public Programs Honoring Percy Green The afternoons of Sunday, July 14 and Tuesday, July 16, visitors can meet and ask questions of Mr. Green. He will also sign a commemorative “Climb to Justice” poster for attendees. The poster, designed by local artist Jae Johans, is free of charge courtesy of Jefferson National Parks Association (limited one poster per family while supplies last).

At 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. July 14-20, on the lower level of the Arch Visitor Center, National Park Service rangers will host a series of public programs focusing on justice and civil rights during the westward expansion of the U.S., as well as on Mr. Green’s efforts to show that building the Arch was itself a struggle for equality for those excluded from participating in its construction.

Junior Ranger Program July 14-20, kids ages 5-12 can participate in a special Junior Ranger program focusing on justice and civil rights portrayed in exhibit galleries in the Museum at the Gateway Arch, including Mr. Green’s protest climb of the Arch. Those who participate can earn a unique Junior Ranger pin.

WHAT: Meet Percy Green
WHEN: Sunday, July 14 from 2-5 p.m. and Tuesday, July 16 from 1-3 p.m.
WHERE: Gateway Arch tram lobby and museum, Gateway Arch National Park
COST: This is a free program and reservations are not required.

Gateway Arch Visitor Reminders Visitors to the Arch must enter the monument at the new glass west entrance, which faces the Old Courthouse. The Arch legs are exits only. Entrance to the Arch Visitor Center and the Museum at the Gateway Arch is free.

Gateway Arch National Park does not have designated on-site visitor parking. A list of parking locations near the park can be found at http://getaroundstl.com. Metered street parking is also available around the park.

The Tram Ride to the Top of the Arch sells out early and often. Visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase tram ride tickets in advance at gatewayarch.com/buytickets. Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes ahead of your scheduled tram time. For more information, visit nps.gov/jeff or gatewayarch.com, or call 877-982-1410.