Oxford Hosts Conference on Memorialization and Healing

News Summary

The University of Mississippi in Oxford is set to host a two-day conference titled ‘Memorialization: Theory, Methods, Goals and Ethics’ on March 14-15. This gathering will explore how memorials shape public memory and society, featuring expert discussions, hands-on workshops, and community events. The conference aims to foster dialogue about the history of memorials and promote healing. A special event, the Memorialization Gathering, will take place in June, focusing on racial terror lynchings. Registration for the conference is free until May 31.

Oxford Gears Up for Meaningful Memorialization Conference!

Excitement is building in Oxford, as the University of Mississippi prepares for an enlightening two-day conference titled “Memorialization: Theory, Methods, Goals and Ethics” on March 14-15. This unique gathering will dive deep into the important topic of how memorials shape our society and the intricate web of public memory.

Gathering Experts from Across the Nation

Bringing together some of the brightest minds in the field, the conference will feature esteemed experts who will engage in thought-provoking discussions about the history and importance of memorials. Attendees can look forward to an array of informative sessions, inspiring talks, and even guided tours of the university’s campus memorials. Not only will this be an incredible learning experience, but it’s also an opportunity for students and researchers to showcase their work!

Mark Your Calendars for the Memorialization Gathering!

As if the conference isn’t exciting enough, Oxford will also host a special event called the Memorialization Gathering from June 7-9. This gathering aims to address the community’s remembrance efforts, particularly focusing on the painful history of racial terror lynchings. It’s a chance for folks to come together and engage in healing dialogues.

Joining Forces for a Greater Cause

One standout feature will be the keynote speaker, Dr. B. Brian Foster, known for his gripping book, “Ghosts of Segregation.” Attendees can also catch a screening of a compelling documentary directed by Antonio Tarrell, which promises to lay the groundwork for rich discussions about remembrance and healing.

Workshops and Community Engagement

The conference isn’t just about lectures! It will offer hands-on workshops that cover crucial topics like engaging with elected officials, collecting oral histories, and collaborating with both community members and descendant families. This reflects the event’s goal to foster real conversations about our past and how we can work towards a more inclusive future.

A Look Ahead to Juneteenth

Another highlight comes when attendees can participate in the “Linen on the Lawn” Juneteenth community event, which promises to be a vibrant celebration tied to the themes of freedom and remembrance. As the conference wraps up, there will be a special community breakfast, followed by a tour of Lafayette County Sites of Memory. This trip will allow participants to connect with the historical narratives that shape their community.

Free Registration and Community Sponsorship

Best of all, registration for the conference and related events is entirely free until May 31! Everyone interested in participating must sign up, ensuring that these valuable conversations are accessible to all. The Lafayette Community Remembrance Project and the Alluvial Collective are just a few of the organizations sponsoring this important gathering, along with the Mississippi Humanities Council and several local partners.

A Step Toward Acknowledgment and Healing

Recent developments, such as a vote from the Lafayette County Board of Supervisors to approve a memorial marker acknowledging local lynching victims, highlight the community’s commitment to recognizing its past. This marker aims to shed light on history that has often been overlooked, encouraging a more comprehensive narrative of local history.

Fostering Empathy and Healing Together

April Grayson, a co-facilitator of the conference, noted the importance of memorialization in paving the way for community healing and reconciliation. Efforts like these are critical as the community confronts its painful history and works to foster empathy among its members. With the involvement of organizations like the Equal Justice Initiative, which funds memorials for lynching victims, there is hope for a more connected and understanding community.

So, if you want to engage in meaningful dialogue and explore the crucial role memorialization plays in community healing, be sure to mark your calendar for these upcoming events in Oxford. It’s a unique opportunity to learn, remember, and perhaps even heal together!

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Additional Resources

• Oxford Eagle: Memorialization Gathering Focuses on Bringing Communities Together
• Washington Post: Oxford High Shooting Lawsuit Memorial
• Oxford Eagle: Mississippi Bar Memorial Service Honors Judges, Lawyers
• Sun Journal: Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School Hosting Fallen Heroes Memorial
• The Daily Mississippian: Board of Supervisors Approves Memorial in Oxford for Past Lynching Victims
• Wikipedia: Memorial
• Google Search: Memorialization
• Google Scholar: Memorialization
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Memorial
• Google News: Memorialization