Heart and Hope: Montgomery, Alabama

The first stop on our journey was a boat ride along the Alabama River. As we motored quietly along this peaceful river with its lush foliage, we felt a heaviness listening to a recording that documented the experience of enslaved people being “sold down the river,” here.

The boat docked at the site of the newly opened (2024) Freedom Monument Sculpture Park. The Park is a beautiful and powerful memorial honoring the lives and memories of Black and Indigenous people who were enslaved in America. It also celebrates their strength, culture, and perseverance.

After reflection, we journeyed to the critically acclaimed Legacy Museum, which invites visitors to explore 400 years of American history, from enslavement to mass incarceration. History is told through firsthand historical accounts, interactive experiences, advanced technology, and art. The visit was a very evocative and emotional experience.

Our last museum visit in Montgomery was the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. As it’s site states, it’s the, “Nation’s first comprehensive memorial to the victims of racial terror lynchings.” The use of sculpture and engraved names in a large outdoor area allows space for processing and reflection.

The Embassy Suites’ large and tasteful open atrium was a place for our group to gather, connect, and enjoy a drink and snack. The hotel’s location was convenient to the river, historic downtown, legacy sites, and the state Capitol and government buildings. There were restaurants close by and the city’s people were warm and welcoming.

• Dreamland BBQ: Delicious chicken, meat, and salad options with local BBQ flavor

• AYA: Soulful dining with a fusion of African, Caribbean, and Southern culinary roots

• Wintzell’s Oyster House: Fresh local seafood specialties

• Hero Donuts and Buns: Local donut specialties but also some quick lunch favorites