Look Back, Launch Forward Events: Commemorating the Memphis 13’s Historical Contribution to Desegregation and Promoting Societal Change

‘Look Back, Launch Forward’ Events Honor and Celebrate the Courage of the Memphis 13

Recently, the city of Memphis completed an extraordinary event titled “Look Back, Launch Forward”. This three-day event took place at the Crosstown Concourse and was a combined effort of The Memphis 13 Foundation and the Crosstown Arts Film Series. The main aim behind this event was to commemorate and celebrate the brave souls of Memphis 13.

A Historic Event Recalling the Brave Actions of the Memphis 13

The Memphis 13 were thirteen African-American first graders who remarkably contributed to desegregating the Memphis Public Schools in 1961. The event aimed at not just remembering the past, but also to inspire a path towards a more inclusive future which will uphold values of inclusion, tolerance, and social change.

The chief attraction of the event was the screening of the documentary, “The Memphis 13”, directed by Daniel Kiel. The film effectively narrates the courage and the transformation these young individuals underwent and how their bravery surpassed their age.

Engaging Discussions Following the Film Screening

Following the documentary screening, an interactive panel discussion involving members of The Memphis 13 took the stage. This session provided an opportunity to delve deeper into their past experiences and learn about their viewpoints on current societal norms. Moderated by Dory Lerner from the National Civil Rights Museum, the discussion facilitated an exploration of how their legacy continues to affect modern efforts towards social justice.

The discussions further led to an onstage conversation between Tanya T. Coats, President of the Tennessee Education Association (TEA), and Dory Lerner. The interactive session, although not crafted as a keynote, nurtured an engagement on the intersectionality of education, civil rights, and the continual efforts required to achieve true equity and inclusion.

Creating a Platform for Dialogue on Social Change

As the event proceeded, guests were treated to a warm welcome by African musician Ekpe Abioto. His tunes set the mood for the evening that focused on the celebration of history, bravery, and the potential of constructive societal transformation.

The “Look Back, Launch Forward” event offered the community a chance to reflect on the past, accept the present, and carve a path for the future; a future where meaningful relationships are cultivated through shared history and collective aspirations for social change.

A Call to Action for a More Inclusive and Tolerant Society

The themes embodied at the event aren’t merely confined to it. Both The Memphis 13 foundation and the Crosstown Arts Film Series continually build their mission upon these pillars. The legacy of The Memphis 13 serves as a constant reminder of unity’s power and the importance of individual efforts towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

As the city moves forward, reflecting not only on the courage of The Memphis 13 but also on the inspiration they are providing for inclusivity and equality, it is clear that brave societal advances can come from even the unlikeliest places.