History and Race in Alabama

One of the projects I wanted to undertake through the South is on the manifestation of the history of race relations in today's 21st century, post-Obama world. I decided a few weeks ago to photograph this project in between Selma and Montgomery, Alabama, where Martin Luther King Jr. held his freedom marches and Rosa Parks sparked the Montgomery bus boycott. I began today at a few historical sites. These first two images are from The Civil Rights Memorial, which pays tribute to those who died in the struggle.



The following image was from inside the Memorial Center, where one can add his name to the Wall of Tolerance and pledge to fight for justice.


Reverend Robert Graetz and his wife look at the piece commemorating his contribution to the Civil Rights Movement inside the Rosa Parks Museum. Graetz worked with MLK Jr. and Parks during their struggle, and the KKK twice bombed his house. I will be visiting him at his house for a full interview and photo session.


This following image is what I will be looking for in the coming days. While it is important to include the historical sites in this story, the strongest images will come out of exploring everyday life and people throughout the area. Jarrett Truss (left), 10, of Montgomery, takes a break from skateboarding as Chandler Truss, 9, of Deatsville, skates by at the Montgomery Skate Park.