Looking back on the impact of our civil rights trip
February 10, 2021
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Back in the summer of 2019, Rev. Paul Rasmussen accompanied several high school seniors from our Outreach Camp on a civil rights pilgrimage, exploring famous sites, museums, and more. It was a life-changing event for everyone involved. For the students that went, many different locations impacted how they now look at this era of history.
Naomi Nivens was interested in traveling to places that she’d never been before and seeing things she’d only learned about in school. Walking across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, in the footsteps of so many others, was what deeply affected her the most. “Because walking where they made history just made me feel like I was a part of the journey,” she said.
As for Cory Brooks, hearing from those who were actually there at the time moved him, especially “the tour through Selma with the lady who experienced it firsthand.” The group would then tie everything back to their daily lives at the end of night. “It was a great opportunity to travel, learn about black history, and meet new people,” Cory said.
All of the students agreed that going with friends made the trip even better.
Alana Roberts said, “I was interested in going with my friends and learning about history — more than just what school teaches me.” She appreciated having friends there not only during the fun times, but in the challenging ones as well. “I was more open and able to cry with friends,” she said. “It was great just knowing that I had them to rub my back when I was crying or to be there for them.”
For Rev. Rasmussen, the trip was unforgettable for a number of reasons as well.
"I've always believed a thoughtful exploration of history is vital to a healthy future,” he said. “The civil rights trip was that and more. Sobering, yes. But I've seldom been as moved by an experience. Sharing that journey with our students was a true blessing."