Civil Rights Activist Sarah Rountree Celebrates 100th Birthday

Rountree, a trailblazer in the 1960s civil rights movement, is the last surviving member of the Committee for Civil Liberties in Omaha.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:39pm

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Civil rights advocate Sarah Rountree celebrated her 100th birthday on Monday, with friends and family describing her as a "trailblazer" and "icon history maker." Rountree was a key member of the Committee for Civil Liberties, a civil rights organization founded in the 1960s, and was at the forefront of the civil rights movement in Omaha. She continued her activism well into her 90s, raising awareness of the water crisis in Flint, Michigan.

Why it matters

Rountree's 100th birthday celebration highlights her lifelong dedication to civil rights and social justice, and the lasting impact she has had on the Omaha community. As the last surviving member of the Committee for Civil Liberties, her story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and contributions of those who fought for equality during the civil rights movement.

The details

At her birthday party, Rountree said, "Hello everyone, I am so happy. God bless all of you for coming to my birthday celebration." The Rev. Darryl Eure, son of another 4CL member, praised Rountree, saying, "She is 100 years young, she's still got the fight. You know, the first thing she said to me was, 'We're going to start up the 4CL again.'" Rountree was known for fighting segregation and teaching kids during her time with the 4CL.

  • Rountree celebrated her 100th birthday on Monday, January 27, 2026.
  • Rountree was at the forefront of the 1960s civil rights movement in Omaha.

The players

Sarah Rountree

A civil rights advocate who celebrated her 100th birthday on Monday. She was a key member of the Committee for Civil Liberties, a civil rights organization founded in the 1960s, and was at the forefront of the civil rights movement in Omaha.

Rev. Darryl Eure

The son of another 4CL member, who praised Rountree's continued activism and fight for civil rights.

John Ewing Jr.

The mayor of Omaha, who issued a proclamation honoring Rountree's dedication and contributions to the Omaha community.

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What’s next

Rountree will be the keynote speaker during Catholic Charities' celebration of African American history at the end of February.

The takeaway

Rountree's 100th birthday celebration is a testament to her lifelong dedication to civil rights and social justice, and the lasting impact she has had on the Omaha community. Her story serves as an inspiration for future generations to continue the fight for equality and social change.