100 Days to Black History Month: Reflections from Week One
This year, I set out on a personal challenge: a 100-day celebration leading up to Black History Month. For years, I’ve felt the limitation of dedicating only a single month—especially a short one—to reflect on Black history. This time, I wanted to begin early, here in my hometown of Anniston, Alabama, a place with its own deep roots in the history of civil rights and social change.
In revisiting the city's historical sites, I began with what I knew—the events of the 1960s and the infamous Freedom Riders bus burning that put Anniston in the national spotlight. I quickly realized, though, that my knowledge was limited to this single event, a small piece of a much larger story. As I dug deeper, I discovered a neighborhood, West 15th Street, once vibrant with Black-owned businesses, homes, and schools. For years, my husband Reinaldo and I have taken visitors to the Freedom Riders Park on Hwy 202, feeling it was the one visible reminder of the courage and struggles that shaped our town. But recently, I found the park’s informational signs vandalized and ultimately missing—a disappointing reminder of the challenges in preserving these important stories.
I visited another significant marker on Gurnee Avenue—a beautiful monument by artist Joseph Giri, detailing the powerful protests at the Trailways Bus Station. Touching the monument and reading about the Freedom Riders’ struggles, I felt moved beyond words. As I prayed there, I was grateful that times have changed, but also aware of how much progress is still needed. Another monument on Noble Street marks the site of the second bus involved in the Freedom Riders’ journey. Here, pressing a button allows you to listen to the story in the words of the Freedom Riders themselves, bringing history alive in a powerful, almost sacred way.
A visit to the local Western Auto, once run by the late Mr. Gene Robison, added new layers to my understanding. This small toy store was one of the few places Black parents could buy Christmas gifts for their children, and I wished I could have spoken to Mr. Robison about those days. Nearby, the Anniston Medical Center marker tells a story of courage, describing how doctors and nurses bravely treated the Freedom Riders despite the risks. At a time when laws enforced strict segregation, these acts of compassion and equality are reminders of the power of humanity and bravery.
Walking these streets, I find myself reflecting on my own role in combating racism, stereotypes, and hatred. How can I make a difference? How do I contribute to progress and peace? The answer, I believe, begins with love—love for our country, our community, and one another.
This week has shown me that while Anniston may be a small town, it has experienced events that ripple far beyond its borders. The faith, courage, and resilience of those who lived here are reminders that we can all strive to be our best, even in the face of hardship. I’m currently reading Beyond the Burning Bus by Phil Noble, which has been a powerful guide in learning more about the trials, triumphs, and enduring faith of this community.
The stories I’ve discovered this week are part of a legacy of resilience and hope. It’s humbling and inspiring to see how this journey, even after so many years, still resonates. I look forward to the days ahead and the lessons I’ll continue to learn on this 100-day path to Black History Month.
