“The Stories that Resonate Within Those Walls"

Reflections from a Hub for Slavery and Civil Rights 

Montgomery, AL

Tevon Conrad, B.A. Political Science '25

The 2025 service immersion trip to Montgomery, Alabama was nothing short of eye opening but most importantly it was educational, fulfilling and rewarding. I had the privilege of being immersed in, not only a hub for slavery, but a hub for the civil rights movement for an entire week. This trip also showed me how social action and social justice are still very much alive and needed.   

Our stay in Montgomery was made comfortable by Resurrection Catholic Church were Fr. Manuel Williams, C.R. is the Pastor. As a Black man Fr. Williams has taken a stand for his community, he proudly hangs a Black Lives Matter flag in front of the Church. He received backlash from other Fathers and Catholic churches. 

The trip was a part of the Resurrection Collegiate Volunteer Program (RCVP). During the week we had the privilege to serve the church in many ways. As a group we helped organize and clean the administration building and the library for the school. We also had the privilege of speaking to various groups of students. I was able to speak to the 7th & 8th graders about making good decisions and the value of a good education. We were able to assist students with their schoolwork, offer advice, and answer many of their questions about college.  

The RCVP introduced me to a series of profoundly moving museums, each one a window into the rich tapestry of Montgomery’s history and its hopes for the future. Every day unfolded a new experience, as we wandered through exhibits that showcased the city's storied past—from the struggles for civil rights to the cultural milestones that shaped its identity. Though many of the museums had strict no-photo policies, the emotional impact of each visit etched vivid images in my mind, leaving me with a deep appreciation for the stories that resonate within those walls.

While in Montgomery it was important to me to learn and listen to as much history on Montgomery that I could. I would often find myself walking around the neighborhood that Resurrection sat in. During one of these walks, I was able to speak to a barber, named Shaun, that has been operating his shop for 27 years and living in Montgomery for 50. This conversation was very valuable to my education, because he highlighted things not spoken about. Shaun explained that the confederate army formed not too far from where his shop was located. Unfortunately, we were not able to view the site. I also learned that the trail of tears started as the trail of Chisholm, and it started a few blocks away from Shaun's barbershop.  

Shaun shared a vivid account of his upbringing in Montgomery, painting a picture of a time when opportunities for youth abounded. He fondly reminisced about the thrill of playing on baseball teams and the camaraderie forged on various fields. Yet, interwoven with these memories were the stark realities of racial tension that overshadowed their childhood.  

He recalled how he and his friends often had to take the long way home, carefully navigating their route to avoid confrontation. The days were filled with a mix of innocence and fear, as they would race to get to their side of town, knowing that shortly after school let out, they might face danger from those who didn’t share their skin color. The dread of being chased hung over them like a dark cloud, a reminder of the unpredictable world around them. Shaun’s story is not just a reflection of his childhood but a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. 

A part of the Catholic education is a total student experience and this came from St. Ignatius. We reflected on how each day made us feel. One of the recurring themes for me was Obligation. This trip inspired me to change my community. It inspired me to work with people and get my organization together to aid in the revitalization of my community. This trip really opened my eyes to the struggles that my people have faced and are continuing to fight against. I have made a pledge to myself but also to my community to be and do better. The generations under me need to see individuals fighting and making a difference.  

W.E.B. Du Bois spoke about the concept of the "Talented Tenth," referring to the vision of a highly educated elite within the African American community that could lead the way toward social and economic advancement. This moment profoundly resonates with me, reflecting the deep significance of his ideas in today’s world. My recent trip has truly transformed me, opening my eyes to the power of knowledge and leadership. I feel a renewed sense of purpose and possibility, as if I am now part of a larger narrative that strives for equality and empowerment. 

This powerful experience was a much-needed refresher in African American history. It revamped my spirit and reignited the fire burning inside of me that knows we should be advancing our community more. I highly recommend this trip to anyone. All walks of life could benefit from these museums, guest speakers, parks, and events. I encourage more to visit Montgomery and I am in the process of planning a trip through my youth organization. I have to thank the University of Detroit Mercy and Resurrection for allowing me to participate in this experience. I am forever changed and grateful for this trip.