Many of you know that I have been on two civil rights pilgrimages through the Living Legacy Project, one in 2023 to Memphis and Mississippi sites, and one in 2024 to Birmingham, Montgomery, and Selma, Alabama. Next week, I am going on a third, to Savannah, Georgia and Beaufort and Charleston, South Carolina.

Each time I have gone on one of these trips, it has been a profound experience, and I trust that the same will be true this time.

It does feel different, making this trip in the current socio-political climate, as opposed to the other two. I am keenly aware that in both the first and second administrations of this president, civil rights gained in the 1950s and 1960s have been rolled back, and more are under threat now. I am also aware that  segment of the population that is opposed to the study of the civil rights movement (or any movement for rights of a marginalized group) is feeling emboldened by this administration’s rejection of all things DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion).

I’m also determined to not only continue learning that history, but also to do what I can to share the stories that they want to erase.

I look forward to sharing what I learn with you after my return!

In gratitude,

Rev. Diana