On June 9th fourteen youth and five adult guides left FCCWP to embark on a remarkable "Listening and Learning" road trip. They visited significant historical and cultural sites across three states, listening to tales of strength and learning how history shapes the present.
Our first stop was the First African Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia. Established in 1773, it holds the distinction of being the oldest black church in North America and a designated National Historic Landmark. During our visit, the young participants gained insights into the intersection of religion and racism spanning from the era of slavery to the present day. Additionally, they had the opportunity to peer through openings in the floorboards into a concealed space that served as a station on the Underground Railroad.
Following the tour, the group enjoyed lunch on a riverboat, during which the captain provided a guided tour of the  Port of Savannah. We learned that it is the fastest growing container terminal in the United States and holds significant historical value. This historical significance was brought to life through a live cannon fire reenactment as we passed  Old Fort Jackson, the oldest remaining brick fortification in Georgia.
Before leaving Georgia visited to learn about the culture. Pin Point is the birthplace of Supreme Court Justice Clarance Thomas, and remains the largest Black owned waterfront property on the east coast. While at the museum the youth watched a documentary about the area, has a private tour of the former crab and oyster factory led by a woman who grew up in Pin Point, got to taste one of the edible plants that grows wild in the marshes, and learned about the importance of community and the value of hard work.
Before departing Georgia, we visited the Pin Point Heritage Museum to explore the Gullah Geechee culture. Pin Point, known as the birthplace of Supreme Court Justice Clarance Thomas, proudly stands as the largest Black-owned waterfront property on the east coast. During the museum visit, we watched a documentary showcasing the area, received a private tour of the former crab and oyster factory guided by a Pin Point native, sampled an edible plant found in the marshes, and gained insights into the importance of community and the value of hard work.
Our next stop was Franklinton Center at Bricks, in North Carolina. The plantation turned school turned conference center and rural learning hub has a mission "to provide a nurturing home to local, national, and global programs and organizations seeking liberation".
The young people had a great time outdoors on the beautiful grounds during the day, while also reflecting on the challenging past of this unique location. An especially unforgettable evening was spent by the fire as a local drummer, storyteller, and poet entertained the group.
The final city on the tour was Charleston, South Carolina, where the group toured Circular Congregational Church and its historic graveyard. Founded in 1681, the church is a growing, vibrant community with a commitment to accessibility and inclusiveness. Their new green certified educational building with it's living roof and geothermal heating/cooling was an interesting juxtaposition to the historical sanctuary and a reminder that old and new ideas can exist side by side.
Before leaving Charleston we made one last stop at Bitty & Beau's, which describes itself as "a human rights movement disguised as a coffee shop". The company employs over 400 individuals with disabilities nationwide - and makes really good coffee! After we got our drinks the staff members answered questions and talked to us about working in such an empowering environment.
Overall the trip was an amazing experience that the youth and chaperones will never forget.
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