A Change is Gonna Come was written in 1964 by Sam Cooke. He was known for his love songs, but he wanted to do more to unite people. This song is a response to injustice, discriminatory laws, and the mistreatment of targeted groups of Americans. These words speak to how many people feel when they sense that there is hope in the fight for justice.
There were times when I thought I couldn’t last for long, but now I think I’m able to carry on. It’s been a long, been a long time coming; but I know a change is gonna come, oh yes, it will.
The Civil Rights Act was passed on July 2, 1964, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. It prohibits unequal treatment for voter registration requirements, racial segregation in schools and public accommodations, and employment discrimination. Later sexual orientation and gender identity were added. A Change is Gonna Come became a motivating song for the movement to have the ACT enforced. It was a belief that change was needed. This made a group of peaceful protesters gather around 3 p.m. on March 7, 1965, at Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church in Selma. Led by Hosea Williams, John Lewis, Albert Turner, and Bob Mants, the group marched across Edmund Pettus Bridge. At the end of the bridge stood Alabama State Troopers and vigilantes under the direction of Maj. John Cloud. The armed Troopers and horsemen assaulted the non-violent protestors. Hundreds were injured. The actions were captured on film and broadcast across the nation. This event became known as “Bloody Sunday,” it is a landmark in American history and the foundation for a successful campaign for the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Unfortunately, in 2021, 56 years later, we see the resurgence of Voter Suppression Laws.
I was a small child when that event happened. Last year I was able to attend the 55th Remembrance in Selma. As we gathered and then walked across the bridge, I could feel that aura of hope still lingering. All voices and votes must matter for democracy. Our church does not have the answers, but we do understand that it is important to come together so that we can work towards an answer. The welfare of all people over politics demands it. If you feel the same, join us. We meet virtually for worship on Sunday mornings at 10 am Meeting ID: 851 2578 5976 Passcode: 850888 You can call in at 1.301.715.8592, Bible Study on Wednesdays, and Check-in to chat on Thursdays. More information can be found on our webpage www.eumcbeltsville.com or our Facebook page www.facebook.com/groups/EUMCBeltsville/. Until next time:
Courageous
Open-mindedness
Manifests
Empowerment