National Voting Rights Museum & Institute, Selma

When I got to visit the Selma Voting rights Museum in the summer of 2005, I was with an NEH Seminar at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Little did I know that the one experience there and meeting Ms. Joanne Bland would offer my students, fellow faculty, and myself continuing learning experiences! From the entrance where you will read the experiences of the Foot Soldiers of the movement to the shrine of remembrance to those who gave the ultimate gift (their life) for future generations, each time you enter a new room, go around a corner, you are confronted with the best of learning- experiencing the pain and suffering that many gave so we can, today, experience the changes and promote the call to continue the fight! I thank Ms. Bland for offering her personal battles to learn from, her vision for tomorrow, and for allowing me to experience of a lifetime!! After visiting the Museum, I challenge you to walk across the Pettus Bridge- listening to the wind, water, the cars rushing by, thinking about the march to Montgomery. Then, take a moment to visit the Peace Shrine/Memorial at the foot of the bridge.... Be aware that your emotions will take control of your thoughts but, you will be better for the experience. Amazing, awesome, fulfilling, are but a few words to describe the experience. PS Consider joining the Museum.....