Participants visit the gravesite of James Chaney, one of three civil rights workers murdered by the Ku Klux Klan in 1964 while working to register Black voters and advance civil rights in Mississippi. During the visit, students reflect on Chaney’s life, the courage and commitment of those who stood alongside him in the fight for justice, and the lasting impact of their sacrifices on the Civil Rights Movement.

Students also have the opportunity to meet Chaney’s daughter, Angela Lewis, who was just 10 days old when her father was murdered. Through her personal stories and reflections, she offers a powerful, firsthand perspective on the human impact of racial violence and the enduring legacy of those who gave their lives in the struggle for equality. Her experiences help students connect history to the present, deepening their understanding of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of civil rights and inspiring continued commitment to justice and equity.

Participants visit the family property of Vernon Dahmer Sr., a civil rights leader who devoted his life to advancing voting rights and equality in Mississippi. Through this experience, students learn about Dahmer’s extraordinary courage and unwavering commitment to justice, including his efforts to help black citizens register to vote despite persistent threats, intimidation, and violence.

Standing on the land where Dahmer lived—and where his family survived a devastating attack by the Ku Klux Klan—students reflect on his enduring legacy and the profound sacrifices made by civil rights activists and their families. They also have the unique opportunity to meet Dahmer’s wife, Ellie Dahmer, who at 101 years old continues to share her firsthand memories and wisdom, as well as his son, Dennis Dahmer, and daughter, Bettie Dahmer. Through their personal stories and reflections, students gain a deeper understanding of Vernon Dahmer’s life, his unwavering pursuit of justice, and the resilience and strength of the family that continues to honor his legacy.

Participants explore the life and enduring legacy of civil rights leader Medgar Evers, including a visit to the home where he was assassinated by a white supremacist. Standing in the driveway where this pivotal moment in American history occurred, students reflect on the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality. They then write personal reflections on the role each individual can play in creating a more just and compassionate world.

Students are often joined by Myrlie Evers-Williams, Evers’ widow, and Reena Evers-Everette, his daughter, who share personal stories, historical insights, and their steadfast commitment to carrying forward Medgar Evers’ vision of civil rights, equality, and justice for future generations.

Participants visit Little Rock Central High School, where they meet Little Rock Nine member Elizabeth Eckford and learn about her courageous role in the fight to end segregation in America’s public schools. Throughout the journey, fellow Little Rock Nine member Minnijean Brown-Trickey often joins students to share her firsthand experiences and reflections on this pivotal chapter in American history.

Together, Elizabeth and Minnijean provide a powerful, personal perspective on the Civil Rights Movement, helping students understand its challenges, triumphs, and enduring legacy. Their stories inspire the next generation to confront injustice, champion equality, and recognize the impact that individual courage can have in creating lasting change.

Participants visit the Lorraine Motel, now home to the National Civil Rights Museum, where they stand at the site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968. As they look up at Room 306, preserved as a memorial to Dr. King’s life and legacy, students reflect on his courageous leadership, his unwavering commitment to nonviolence, and the continuing work of building a more just and equitable society.

Outside Room 306, students encounter these words engraved on the memorial plaque: “Behold, here cometh the dreamer. Let us slay him, and we shall see what will become of his dreams.” These words invite reflection on Dr. King’s life, the Civil Rights Movement he helped lead, and the enduring responsibility