60th Anniversary Letters from a Birmingham Jail

A dialogue with local clergy about race relations in the 21st century

On April 4, 2023 the Center for Community Engagement held an event at Goshen College Church Chapel remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s letter to white clergy in Birmingham, AL and
how it relates to justice for the local African American community today. Followed by a question and answer session.

The 60th Anniversary of Dr. Martin King’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail focused on the importance of white clergy being a voice of justice for the black community today, just as it was needed 60 years ago.  In April of 1963, Dr. Martin King was invited to Birmingham, AL to bring awareness to the racial injustice happening in the city due to Jim  Crow laws.  King was arrested on Good Friday for leading a march.  While sitting in jail, he read an article written by six white clergymen calling his demonstrations unwise and untimely.”  His response is what is today the “Letter from a Birmingham Jail.”

Moderated by Lawrence Giden, our Specialized Community Engagement Coordinator with special guests:

• Andre Stoner, Community Organizer Faith in Indiana
• Pastor, Ben Bouwman at Walnut Hill Mennonite Church
• Rev. Cindy Balch Uhrich, Pastor Lydick United Methodist Church