"Those Who Lived It: Finding the People Who Were Changed By Freedom Summer and Telling Their Stories"

Susan Goldman Rubin will discuss the research and writing of her book FREEDOM SUMMER: THE 1964 STRUGGLE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS IN MISSISSIPPI.  Rubin traveled to Mississippi to meet with civil rights veterans such as Charles McLauren and rode with him through the Delta to see where events took place, and learn more about unsung heroes like Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer.  She also interviewed local members of communities to hear how the events of Freedom Summer touched their lives as kids.  One contact led to another. Rubin obtained eye witness accounts from former Freedom Summer volunteers who shared reminiscences, artwork, letters, and snapshots.  And she began by meeting Rita Schwerner Bender, widow of slain civil rights worker Mickey Schwerner, who reminded her that the real story was about the people of Mississippi who stayed after Freedom Summer was over and are still struggling for civil rights.

Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SusanRubin.