Equity Project Alliance

Women’s Leadership Workshop Part Deux
2025-11-22
Women’s Leadership Workshop Part Deux

This event is coming soon, and details about this event will be updated accordingly as time goes on. Thank you for your interest.

Sacred Space Listening Circle Book Discussion
2025-11-11
Sacred Space Listening Circle Book Discussion

This event is coming soon, and details about this event will be updated accordingly as time goes on. Thank you for your interest.

EPA's VOICES OF THE VILLAGE "I Had No Idea! Stories of Surprising Discovery"
2025-10-16 16:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center, 117 E Government St, Pensacola, FL, 32502, United States
Join us at EPA’s VOICES OF THE VILLAGE for eye-opening stories that will leave you saying, “I Had No Idea!”

Have you ever walked into a situation thinking you had it all figured out—only to be completely surprised by what you learned? Have you ever met someone and assumed you knew who they were, only to find out they were nothing like you expected?
Perhaps you’ve uncovered a hidden talent within yourself or learned something unexpected about your family, community, or workplace. Maybe someone surprised you with an act of kindness, resilience, or strength that changed your perspective forever.
These are the moments that leave us shaking our heads and saying,
“I had no idea!” Life is full of surprises—and stories worth sharing. Whether funny, heartfelt, inspiring, or transformative—we want to hear it.

Reserve Tickets Here

You’re Invited: A Community Event Featuring Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones
2025-09-11 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Brownsville Community Center, 3200 West DeSoto Street, Pensacola, FL, 32505, United States
“It’s never too late for truth; never too late for justice:”
The Prosecutions of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing.”

PRESENTED BY

Former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama and U. S. Senator Doug Jones will be the guest speaker at a community event presented by the Innisfree Hive/Equity Project Alliance and David R. Hawkins in collaboration with the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association. The ticketed event will be held Friday, September 19 at the Brownsville Community Center, 3200 West DeSoto Street, Pensacola. The doors will open at 11 a.m. The program will begin at noon.
As U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, Doug Jones successfully prosecuted two of the four men responsible for the September 15, 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, bringing justice and closure nearly 40 years after the attack that killed four young girls. In his presentation, “It’s never too late for truth; never too late for justice: The prosecutions of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing,” Jones will recount the experience and reflect on the pivotal moment in our nation’s history and the struggle for equal rights. The event will coincide with the anniversary week of the bombing.
“We are pleased that Senator Jones will be presenting to our community about his experience prosecuting this historic and horrendous crime,” said Rebecca Gilliland, Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association president. “I look forward to his personal and legal perspective and hope the citizens of Pensacola and the surrounding area can join us.”
Business casual attire is requested. Tickets are $30 per person or $220 for a table of eight. Tickets must be purchased in advance by Thursday, September 11th

OUR SPEAKER

Doug Jones served as a U.S. Senator from Alabama (2018–2021) and is best known for prosecuting two Ku Klux Klan members responsible for the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing. His work has been recognized nationwide for advancing civil rights and justice.
As U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, Doug Jones successfully prosecuted two of the four men responsible for the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church—finally bringing full justice and closure nearly 40 years after the attack that killed four young girls. Along with taking on the Ku Klux Klan, he indicted domestic terrorist Eric Rudolph and prosecuted other criminals who sought to use fear, hatred, and violence to inhibit the rights of others. Jones recounts a key moment in our long national struggle for equality and the successful prosecution of two Ku Klux Klan members 40 years later in his book Bending Toward Justice: The Birmingham Church Bombing that Changed the Course of Civil Rights. Senator Jones’ presentation will cover the climate preceding the event, the murder of the four young girls, the trials that followed and the advancing of civil rights in the aftermath of the bombing.

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Party in the Park Story Slam
2025-08-16 15:00 - 16:00, 2025-08-09 15:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Hollice T. Williams Park, 1601 North Hayne Street, Pensacola, 32503, United States
The Equity Project Alliance joins the City of Pensacola Urban Design team in celebrating the Hollice T. Williams Park, honoring the legacy of Hollice T. Williams—Pensacola’s first African American City Councilman following the Civil War, and the first African American to serve as Director of the YMCA. This recognition marks an important milestone in commemorating local history, leadership, and community resilience.

Save the Date - Conversation in Black & White
2025-08-14 17:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd, Pensacola, FL, 32504, United States
This year’s Conversation in Black and White delves into the powerful lived experiences of two individuals who came of age during one of the most pivotal and turbulent periods in American history — the era of school integration and social resistance. Both are graduates of Pensacola High School and were standout athletes – one a football star, the other a basketball star. The conversation between Dick Appleyard and Ernest Dawson is a must attend event! Their stories are riveting, insightful, and thought provoking.
Moderated by John Peacock!
Come join us for dinner and a riveting conversation! Hope to see you there!
August 14th 2025 – 5:00PM – 7:30PM

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The Equity Project Alliance’s VOICES OF THE VILLAGE presents “STORIES THAT STITCH US TOGETHER” – A Story Slam Event
2025-07-17 17:30 - 18:30 (America/New_York) | Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center, 117 E Government St, Pensacola, FL, 32502, United States
“STORIES THAT STITCH US TOGETHER”

The Equity Project Alliance invites you to join us for our next Story Slam as we listen to powerful stories that cut across boundaries to tap into something that is profoundly human. Even when our stories come from different contexts, they often echo emotions, struggles and dreams that resonate with others. Come hear these powerful stories that “stitch us together” in a rich tapestry of shared humanity.
If you are interested in sharing your story, email katlyn@innisfreehotels.com for your application today! Only a few spots are available! Applications are due by July 3, 2025. If you are selected to share your story, you will be notified by July 10, 2025.

Reserve Tickets Here

Equity Project Alliance and Baptist Health Care Present Volunteer Training
2025-07-01 16:00 - 18:30 (America/New_York) | Baptist Health Care, 125 Baptist Way, Pensacola, FL, 32503, United States
This dynamic training is a collaborative initiative between Baptist Health Care, Equity Project Alliance and Wiley Cat Consulting.

Volunteers play an essential role in many non-profit organizations. They can be counted on to show up and help out. To help ensure that the volunteer experience is positive for both the volunteer and the organization, the Equity Project Alliance in partnership with Baptist Health Care is offering a volunteer training program.This two-hour workshop is designed to help volunteers feel confident and competent in their roles and includes soft skills development, interactive discussion and role playing.
Dinner will be served! Sign up today!

Click Here To Sign Up

Women in Business Coffee 2025 June
2025-06-27 08:30 - 09:30 (America/New_York) | Pensacola Chamber, 418 W. Garden St. 4th Floor, Pensacola, FL, 32591, United States
Join us for the Women in Business Coffee! The Women in Business Coffee promotes full participation and leadership of women at all levels in the workplace, the community, and the government. This bi-monthly meeting provides opportunities for women to learn and network as well as share expertise with each other and address the unique issues women in business face.
This coffee is brought to you by Presenting Sponsor, PJ’s Coffee on New Orleans
Thank you to our supporting sponsor Community Bank.
Thank you to our Coffee Sponsor: PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans
Date: Friday, June 27thTime: 8:30 amPlace: Pensacola Chamber Office; 418 W. Garden St. 4th FloorNetworking begins at 8:15 am and program starts at 8:30 amPrice: $10 for members | $15 for non-members

Additional Information Here

Unsung Heroes
2025-06-21 13:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Luna Fine Arts, 12 Via De Luna Dr, Pensacola Beach, FL, 32561, United States
Luna Fine Art Gallery presents an exhibit honoring ordinary people who did extraordinary things…

Luna Gallery is proud to announce a special exhibit honoring extraordinary individuals whose service and contributions have made a lasting impact on our community.
We are delighted to recognize the following honorees:

Dr. Wendy Bennett
Linda Scott
Modeste McCorvey
Bernice Burlingame
Sonny and Helen Garner
Dr. John Edward Balthrop, Jr.
Dr. Charles Augustus, Sr.
Rosemary Bonifay

Their dedication and actions have helped shape a stronger, more vibrant community, and we are thrilled to celebrate their legacies.
This unique exhibit will feature commissioned works from talented local artists:

Kendall Sainata
Maria Hoch
Cris Pope
Joan Overton
Diane Collins
Shaughnessy Johnson & Lisa Puzon

Join us as we honor these unsung heroes through art, dance, and music. The event will include a moving performance by local youth dancers choreographed by Starr Burlingame and a special musical presentation by a youth jazz quartet from Amelia Island.

Partnering with a Purpose
2025-06-12 11:30 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Gateway Church of Christ, 445 Creighton Rd, Pensacola, 32504, United States
This luncheon will foster collaboration across sectors and spark actionable strategies that create lasting impact on community health.

Welcome to Partnering with a Purpose! Join us at the Gateway Church Community Room where we will have lunch and a panel discussion to explore the health impact potential when healthcare organizations come together to “Partner with a Purpose.” This event will bring together providers, payers, pharmaceutical, and professional organizations to explore how meaningful partnerships can drive improved health outcomes in our community.

Click Here To Sign Up

The EPA Invites You to the Annual Data Walk - Save the Date
2025-04-22 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Greater Little Rock Baptist Church, 901 N A St, Pensacola, FL, 32501, United States
Dinner, Date Review and Conversation…

The Equity Project Alliance, in partnership with Achieve Escambia, the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, Pensacola Young Professionals and the Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce, is continuing the conversation on its most popular dinner topic – the Statistical Data Walk.
The data has been updated and covers such areas as housing and homelessness, income and employment, health, school readiness and more. The panelists are phenomenal!
Join the conversation, learn more, explore the data and engage in transformative thinking at the next Dinner of Change on April 22, 2025 at Greater Little Rock Baptist Church. More information to follow.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Living in an Icon: Contemplation in Nature
2025-04-12 10:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Naval Live Oaks, 1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL, 32563, United States
Join us for this transformational day retreat.

The Center for Sacred Space seeks to offer Nature Contemplation Retreat Days three times per year. People commonly report finding it easy to connect with the Sacred while in nature, and these retreat days offer the setting, facilitation, and tools to do so.
Science is increasingly confirming what many of us routinely experience from time in nature – lowered stress levels, a sense of transcendence and connection to something greater than ourselves, better attention spans, and an overall sense of well-being, refreshment for mind, body, and spirit.
The retreat facilitators hold a Certificate in Contemplation and Care for Creation from the Center for Deep Green Faith. The schedule of the retreat day offers a short time of teaching which includes a prompt reflection, followed by a time of silent personal reflection, and a re-gathering to discuss the experience together. Lunch follows, and the process is repeated with a different prompt in the afternoon. Any adult is welcome to participate. Join us for lunch, outdoor exploring, contemplative meditation, and community reflection.
The book used for the retreats is called Living in an Icon written by Jerry Cappel and Robert Gottfried. Bring a chair, water bottle, hat and sunscreen, comfortable shoes to walk and explore.

Bring Water Bottle & Chair

VOICES OF THE VILLAGE present “Bridging the Gap, Reconnecting Boundaries ” – a Story Slam Event
2025-04-10 16:45 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | From the Ground Up Garden, 300 E La Rua St, Pensacola, FL, 32501, United States
The Equity Project Alliance’s VOICES OF THE VILLAGE present “Bridging the Gap, Reconnecting Boundaries ” – a Story Slam Event
“Bridging the Gap, Reconnecting Boundaries ” is about reconnecting with the past while forging new paths. As we reflect on those moments that helped shape who we are becoming, it is important to think about where we have been and the people, places and experiences that brought us to where we are.
This is your time to share your journey of adapting to change, forging new paths, and sharing your journey of growth through the years. The mike is yours for six (6) minutes to share your own powerful story.
Be among the first to sign up, either to speak (the application is attached) or to enjoy the stories of others as they share their how they’ve bridged the gap and made new connections.
Reserve your tickets here: Reserve Your Tickets Here.

Black History Event: Archaeology in a Glass
2025-02-21 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | 1216 NORTH Pensacola, 1216 North 9th Avenue, Pensacola, FL, 32501, United States
Join us for an evening of food, drinks, mingling, and a captivating presentation by an archaeologist on Black history on the Gulf Coast.

Join us for our first Archaeoology in a Glass talk at 1216 North in Pensacola! FPAN’s Bria Brooks will be the presenter for this event. Bria is a coastal archaeologist whose research focuses on African American history and its deep ties to waterways. She will deliver a compelling presentation titled Unearthing Legacies: Black Archaeological Heritage on the Eastern Gulf Coast, shedding light on the underrepresented narratives of the region.
Space is limited; RSVP today to reserve your spot!
“Archaeology in a Glass” is free and open to the community, but is recommended for adults. This event offers a perfect opportunity to mix and mingle with fellow history enthusiasts while enjoying a fascinating presentation. The talk will begin at 6:30 and guest are recommended to arrive early to place food and drink orders and claim a seat before the talk begins.
Highlights of the Event:

Mix and Mingle: Meet and connect with fellow enthusiasts in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
Food & Drinks for Purchase: Enjoy a selection of food and drinks available for purchase from 1216 North.
Engage with an Archaeologist: Get the chance to ask any burning questions about archaeology and history.
Learn About Local Black History: Explore the untold stories of Black archaeological heritage along the Eastern Gulf Coast.

Click Here To Make Reservations

UNDER 16 WITH PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN

EPA's VOICES OF THE VILLAGE "Fresh Starts: Goodbyes & Hellos" Story Slam
2025-01-16 16:45 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center, 117 E Government St, Pensacola, FL, 32502, United States
Join us for a night of storytelling and community connection at EPA’s VOICES OF THE VILLAGE “Fresh Starts: Goodbyes & Hellos Story Slam!

“FRESH STARTS: GOODBYES & HELLOS”
“Fresh Starts: Goodbyes & Hellos” is the theme of the Equity Project Alliance’s New Year’s story slam. As we reflect on the past year and look forward to the New Year, what a wonderful time to capture our thoughts about what we are saying goodbye to and, more importantly, what we plan to say hello to in the New Year. A fresh start gives us the opportunity to start something new and to let go of something that no longer fits – both figuratively and literally. What is something that you are looking forward to doing or becoming in the New Year? What is something that you want to let go of? If you’re not sure what this might be, just ask a good friend.
In this New Year filled with new beginnings, what will you do to transform yourself into the best YOU? Are you ready to embrace discomfort, set clear intentions, and take deliberate steps to becoming a better version of you? Are you ready to reflect on what you wish you had done differently in the past year? Are you ready to begin something dynamic in the New Year! What an ideal space to begin your journey of self-transformation. Begin with the end in mind.
If you are interested in sharing your story, email katlyn@innisfreehotels.com for your editable online application today! Only eight spots available! Applications are due by December 27th, 2024. If you are selected to share your story, you will be notified by January 7, 2025.

Reserve A Spot Today

EPA's VOICES OF THE VILLAGE present “Moments of Magic" Story Slam
2024-10-17 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center, 117 E Government St, Pensacola, FL, 32502, United States
Join us for a night of storytelling and community connection at EPA’s VOICES OF THE VILLAGE “Moments of Magic” Story Slam!

A Conversation in Black & White: Just a Tad Bit Different
2024-07-25 17:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd, Pensacola, FL, 32504, United States
You are about to witness a unique undertaking. This two-person dialogue explores the lived experiences of two Southerners who grew up in the Deep South during a time of racial segregation. One participant grew up in a wealthy suburb of Birmingham; the other grew up in a rural south Georgia town. Their conversation will explore various topics from each person’s worldview and experiences through the years.
This inside look at the experiences of these two individuals will leave you with a broadened perspective of how worldviews are shaped as they explore the world of rich, poor, white, black, male, female, music, dance and myriad other topics. You may feel connected, curious, uncomfortable, surprised, inspired or hopeful. Whatever emotion you feel, you will be moved by their honest responses. As we strive to improve conversations about race and difference in our community, what better way to do so than to invite you to listen in and share your thoughts about their conversation over dinner.
Scholars have found that friendships are a fitting space to have these conversations. We are glad that we are surrounded by friends as we explore the nuances of dialogue cross culturally through the decades with the twists and turns that have occurred in the lives of these two individuals. Who knows what we might learn?
Hope to see you there!

The Bail Project - An Evening Hosted by Julian MacQueen with Robin Steinberg, Founder of the Bail Project.
2024-04-25 18:30 - 20:00 UTC | The Rex, 18 North Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL, 32502, United States
The Bail Project – An Evening Hosted by Julian MacQueen with Robin Steinberg, Founder of the Bail Project.

The Rex18 North Palafox Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us for a remarkable evening dedicated to learning about and supporting the Bail Project.
Hosted by Julian MacQueen with Robin Steinberg, founder of the Bail Project. This in-person event promises to be an enlightening and engaging experience.
Learn more about The Bail Project’s mission to combat mass incarceration and provide bail assistance to those in need. Be prepared to be inspired and motivated to make a difference in others’ lives. This is an event you won’t want to miss! Reserve your free spot now.

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Come join us at the Equity Project Alliance Data Walk and Dinner of Change to dine, discuss and explore data together!
2024-04-09 17:00 - 20:00 UTC | Museum of Commerce, 201 Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502, Pensacola, FL, 32502, United States
Come join us at the Equity Project Alliance Data Walk and Dinner of Change to dine, discuss and explore data together!

Museum of Commerce201 Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502

The Equity Project Alliance, in partnership with Achieve Escambia, the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, Pensacola Young Professionals and the Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce, is continuing the conversation on its most popular dinner topic – the Statistical Data Walk. The data has been updated and covers such areas as Homelessness, Heart Disease Death Rates, Homicide Death Rates by Race, Youth Arrests and Violent Crimes, Racial Equity in Income and more.
The EPA is committed to hosting gatherings to expand community conversations and collaboration. Join the conversation, explore the data and engage in transformative thinking at the next Dinner of Change on April 9, 2024 at the Museum of Commerce.
Doors open at 5:00 for the Data Walk, followed by a panel presentation with table discussions during dinner.
The Dinner of Change is a free event, but reservations are required.

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The Tuskegee University Golden Voices Concert Choir
2024-03-09 15:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd, Pensacola, FL, 32504, United States
March 9, 2024 – 3:00 – 5:00 pm
Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio

1000 College Blvd – Pensacola, FL Pensacola State College

The Tuskegee Choir is an organization steeped in more than a century of pride and the richest of choral traditions. Since its inception in 1886, the Tuskegee Choir has served as an artistic model while carving its place in American history. The choir has performed for the grand opening of Radio City Music Hall, for United States presidents (Herbert Hoover and president-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt, at Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., and for a host of television and radio programs. The Tuskegee Choir has appeared at Carnegie Hall, the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (1962) by President John F. Kennedy, the National Prayer Breakfast (1994) and the White House (1997) by President William J. Clinton.
On January 18, 2015, in celebration of the release of the movie Selma, the choir was invited to sing the Grammy Award winning song “Glory” with John Legend and Common on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. After a two-year hiatus from touring due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the choir resumed touring again in 2023. On March 9, 2024, the choir will perform in Pensacola, FL, home of renown Tuskegee Airman, General Daniel “Chappie” James.
Get your tickets via Event Brite at Clink on this link to get your tickets!!

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Henry Box Brown: A Musical Journey
2023-06-17 18:30 - 20:00 UTC | Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd, Pensacola, FL, 32504, United States
A MAN ESCAPED SLAVERY BY MAILING HIMSELF TO FREEDOM.

HIS STORY MADE ITS WAY TO PENSACOLA..

THIS PRODUCTION WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY GENEROUS CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE FOLLOWING:

The Equity Project Alliance • National Endowment of the Arts • New York State Council of the Arts • New York University Office of Governance & Community Affairs • Office of Baha’i Schools & Education • WSRE PBS • Baptist Health Care • McDonald’s • Navy Federal Credit Union • Regions Bank

and

Julian and Kim MacQueen • Manocherian Family Foundation • Posner-Wallace Foundation • Jackie Eghrari Sabet – Hamid Samandari/McKinsey Consulting • The Wayfarer Foundation • Rainbow Pediatrics, Dr. Gina Tucker

At a time of social upheaval, Mehr Mansuri wanted to create a play that could help move the country forward into a better future. As the co-founder and artistic director of the Children’s Theater Company in New York, Mansuri believes the theater is a unifier for people of all backgrounds to learn about one another.
“We believe theater is itself an empathy-building tool of all of us looking into the lives that we’ve never lived,” Mansuri said. “Looking through that small window into another person’s life and maybe having a new view about it.” She had trouble finding a story where Black and white people came together to make sacrifices for one another. That is until she came across a book about Henry “Box” Brown, a 19th-century slave who escaped to freedom by mailing himself in a wooden crate from Virginia to abolitionists in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
In 2008, Mansuri and the Children’s Theater Company put pen to paper and created “Henry Box Brown: A Musical Journey.” Now, the show will be presented at 1 and 7 p.m. June 17 and 18 at the Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio at Pensacola State College. The play is sponsored by the Equity Project Alliance, a collective of Escambia County citizens working to create a more equitable and diverse community.

An Evening with Bob Zellner: Civil Rights Activist
2023-02-25 17:30 - 20:00 UTC | Gateway Church of Christ, 445 Creighton Rd, Pensacola, 32504, United States
During this event, Bob Zellner recalled the victories, struggles & heartbreaks he experienced firsthand as an active civil rights leader in the 1960s.

Gateway Church of Christ
445 Creighton Rd, Pensacola, FL 32504

The Equity Project Alliance was honored to welcome Bob Zellner, an active leader in the Civil Rights Movement from the 1960s to today. The son and grandson of Ku Klux Klan members, he risked his life – and nearly lost it – many times in the fight to achieve The Second Emancipation.
As an organizer of The Freedom Rides of 1961 and the first white southerner to serve as field secretary for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), he worked alongside Ella Baker, Martin Luther King, Jr., John Lewis, Rosa Parks, Diane Nash, Julian Bond, Fannie Lou Hamer, and many other civil rights leaders.
Famous for battles with the KKK, segregationist lynch mobs, and violent police, he is now one of the key individuals that a new generation turns to with questions on the racial, historical, and cultural assumptions on which they were raised, as they ask themselves, “What is my place in this struggle?”

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An Evening with Elizabeth Eckford, Civil Rights Icon
2022-10-06 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
The Equity Project Alliance, in partnership with the Delta Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast, was honored to welcome Civil Rights Icon, Elizabeth Eckford to Pensacola on October 6, 2022, to discuss her experience as one of nine black students who desegregated Little Rock’s Central High School in 1957.
The Little Rock Nine were a group of nine Black students who enrolled at formerly all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in September 1957. Their attendance at the school was a test of Brown v. Board of Education, a landmark 1954 Supreme Court ruling that declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional. On September 4, 1957, the first day of classes at Central High, Governor Orval Faubus called in the Arkansas National Guard to block the Black students’ entry into the high school. Later that month, President Dwight D. Eisenhower sent in federal troops to escort the Little Rock Nine into the school. It drew national attention to the civil rights movement.
The Little Rock Nine arrived for the first day of school at Central High on September 4, 1957. Eight arrived together, driven by Arkansas NAACP member Daisy Bates.
Elizabeth Eckford’s family, however, did not have a telephone, and Bates could not reach her to let her know of the carpool plans. Therefore, Eckford arrived alone.
The Arkansas National Guard, under orders of Governor Faubus, prevented any of the Little Rock Nine from entering the doors of Central High. One of the most enduring images from this day is a photograph of Eckford, alone with a notebook in her hand, stoically approaching the school as a crowd of hostile and screaming white students and adults surround her.
Eckford later recalled that one of the women spat on her. The image was printed and broadcast widely in the United States and abroad, bringing the Little Rock controversy to national and international attention.
