We're on the road! The 2023 MLMP Civil Rights Bus Trip is underway!
/Thursday, October 26
Silence. Silence followed after participants on the 2023 MLMP Civil Rights Bus Trip listened to Mr. Hank Thomas share his reflections of what it was like to be on one of the Freedom Riders buses that was viciously attacked and burned in Anniston, Alabama in 1961. We were left breathless. Spontaneously, one of the participants began to sing. We joined together.
The first day of the Civil Rights Bus Trip concluded with this weighty and somber moment, yet demonstrated the ways that our group of 38 had already formed important bonds and learned to support and care for each other.
We started our day in Atlanta at Sweet Auburn Market to enjoy a good cup of coffee and listen to our leaders from the Institute of Common Power, Terry Ann Scott and David Domke. They framed the journey were embarking upon through history. We walked Auburn Avenue to the King Center and stopped at important places and spaces to learn more history, study murals, and talk with neighborhood residents. Prior to leaving the King Center, we listened to Georgia Poet Mr. Hank Stewart share his journey through poetry and prose. Mr. Stewart was uplifting, inspirational, and purposeful. We ended up joined in song.
I feel overwhelmed and humbled as I reflect on our country’s history and the behaviors of generations of people. I have much hope that trips like this one will encourage our nation to engage in needed conversation so that we may stop, for once, hate and racial violence.
On Day Two, we will begin early in Montgomery with a walking tour from the river to Dexter Avenue Baptist Church.
Please join us on our journey by following this blog, adding comments, and contributing personal stories!
Some photos from Day One:
