We welcomed Rosh Hashanah, Jewish new year, at the Elaine Massacre Memorial dedication. Thus begins the Days of Awe, or Shabbat Teshuvah – Sabbath of Repentance. This is traditionally a time of reflection as we seek reconciliation with those we have wronged.
It felt apt. The massacre was among the bloodiest racial conflicts in U.S. history. On its 100th anniversary, descendants of both sides came together.
The ceremony included student Shakira Zachary reading Maya Angelou’s On The Pulse Of Morning, concluding
“Here on the pulse of this new day
You may have the grace to look up and out
And into your sister’s eyes
Into your brother’s face, your country
And say simply
Very simply
With hope
Good morning.”
We’ll continue to reflect, and hope to share more moments from the dedication soon. Til then:
L’shana tovah – happy new year, to us all.
The Elaine Massacre Memorial Dedication Ceremony program | September 29, 2019 | (c) Shared Experiences USA