Memorialization Gathering in Oxford Focuses on Bridging Community Gap
Unifying communities through memorialization and remembrance initiatives is set to be the central theme of an upcoming event in Oxford, Mississippi. Community groups and individuals who are passionate about memorializing history and fostering remembrance are invited to partake in the three-day conference, Memorialization Gathering in Mississippi and Beyond.
The event is scheduled to take place from June 7 to 9 with the majority of activities happening at the Jackson Avenue Center. The conference is expected to feature a keynote address, panel discussions, community supper and brunch, among other activities.
The gathering, organized by the Lafayette Community Remembrance Project, aims to bring together a diverse set of advocates from across the state. By fostering shared learning experiences and skill-building sessions, they aspire to bridge gaps, initiating conversations, and connections in the community.
Remembering the Past, Education, and Healing
The Memorialization Gathering conference aims to provide the attendees an opportunity to learn about memorial and remembrance activities. They will have the chance to meet local advocates, understand the importance of historical memory work in their communities, and learn how they can contribute to sustaining such efforts.
According to the Equal Justice Initiative, events like these that center around reflection and discussion can significantly influence the public’s perception of past mistakes, and help pave the way towards a more honest conversation about racial inequality and injustice.
The Conference Agenda and Highlights
The conference opens its doors on Friday, June 7, starting with a film screening of a documentary by filmmaker Antonio Tarrell. The documentary will follow the journey of a community group as they visit memory sites in the southern United States.
Following the screening, Dr. B. Brian Foster, an ethnographer and multi-medium storyteller, will present the keynote address. Foster, a champion of interpreting and documenting Black communities’ culture, folklore, and rural South placemaking practices, will offer his unique insights to attendees.
On Saturday, June 8, attendees will participate in workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions to connect with local advocates and learn about positive reminiscence nuances. The conference will conclude with a community breakfast on Sunday morning, and a free tour of Lafayette County memory sites.
“The presentations, discussions, and workshops will provide the information and skills necessary for those interested in supporting remembrance projects,” said April Grayson, the conference co-facilitator. “All participants will find they are vital members of an expanding network of Mississippians who are passionately engaged in remembrance work.”
Community members wishing to attend the conference are asked to register by May 31. To register, visit bit.ly/LCRPoxford.
About the Organizers
The Memorialization Gathering in Oxford is organized by the Lafayette Community Remembrance Project and the Alluvial Collective. Sponsors for the event include the Mississippi Humanities Council, LOU Mercy Re-entry Ministries, Yoknapatawpha Arts Council, and E Pluribus Unum.
