“Freedom” and “equality” are words used throughout our nation’s foundational documents and anthems. On the surface, every person in the US should have the same access to resources and opportunities to build a fruitful life. The reality is harsher than the ideal. For centuries, people of color have faced obstacles, challenges, injustices, and brutalities because of their skin color or nation of origin. Recent times have highlighted the 400-year-old struggle of racism and inequality in America. To make Dr. Martin Luther King’s “dream” a reality, we must educate ourselves about the past and dedicate ourselves to working towards the freedom and equality we’ve shouted about since our country’s inception.
A Wonder Voyage Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Alabama covers the tales of Montgomery, Selma, and Birmingham. The journey follows the stories of those who marched, protested, and died in the struggle to shine light upon the inequalities and injustices in the land where all are “created equal.” Each day adds a new layer of understanding and perspective to conversations about privilege and prejudice. Join Wonder Voyage as a part of the solution.
Overview
- Recall Rosa Parks’s tale of courage in Mongomery.
- Engage in difficult conversations about modern forms of discrimination.
- Walk the Edmund Pettis Bridge—the site of Bloody Sunday.
- Consider the importance of using your voice by exercising the right to vote.
- Hear stories of heroism and sacrifice at the National Civil Rights Museum.
Itinerary
Every Wonder Voyage itinerary (mission trip and/or pilgrimage) is personalized to the desires, direction and personality of each group. This itinerary is only a description of the kind of journey we can create for your unique team.
Day 1 – Unalienable Rights
Welcome to Alabama. This state in the southeastern U.S. is frequently noted for its role in the American Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. A week of pilgrimage begins with words from the Declaration of Independence. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” This challenging journey of discovery will provide plenty of opportunities to ponder what it means to be equal.
Day 2 – The Work of Freedom
Our journey starts in Birmingham. During the 1960s, Birmingham was at the center of the Civil Rights Movement. The city endured much bloodshed, strife, and tragedy during those painful years—a reminder that ensuring freedom takes work. We will spend the day visiting sites at the nexus of the struggle. We will also visit the Civil Rights Institute and hear about the work of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama to stand against hate, injustice, and intolerance.
Day 3 – At What Cost Freedom?
The 15th Amendment to the US Constitution was passed in 1869. It granted African Americans the right to vote. During the following 90 years, however, states found ways to impinge upon this right. Selma, Alabama, was the starting place for three different marches in support of equal voting rights during the early 1960s. From the Edmund Pettis Bridge—the site of Bloody Sunday—to memorials for those who were martyred for the cause, this day is focused on the idea that freedom has a cost.
Day 4 – Get On The Bus
The turbulence of the 1960s also included challenges to racial segregation that was legitimized by Jim Crow laws in the South. Even though the Supreme Court had determined that segregation was unconstitutional, the marginalization of African Americans continued. People like Rosa Parks and the Freedom Riders took their stand against this unjust system daily. Our day in Montgomery includes visits to sites dedicated to the folks who were brave enough to get on the bus.
Day 5 – Seek and Serve Christ
Our final full day in Alabama is dedicated to the precept of our call as followers of Christ, in which we “seek and serve Christ in others.” After several days of pondering the burdens of racial injustice, a time of volunteer service will realign our focus to grow in empathy and understanding. Our last evening together provides time for celebration, discussion, and prayer as we prepare for the journey homeward.
Day 6 – Continue the Work
Our days in Alabama have taken us through many of the sacred spaces associated with the Civil Rights Movement. There is still much work to do if recent events worldwide are any indicator. As you return home, may it be with hearts and minds more fully dedicated to the work of healing and justice.
Legacy Location
Legacy in Alabama: A Civil Rights Journey
- *This is the base cost of the trip. Your cost may differ depending on housing, activities, etc.
