by Marion Marks
This evening’s Reconciliation Dinner in Shreveport will recognize citizens who were chosen because of contributions they made in spirit as well as demonstrated success in community racial reconciliation. “Rising Voices” (younger citizens who have made significant efforts to encourage the spirit of reconciliation) as well as some deceased citizens whose lives appropriately fit this description were also recognized. The deceased Shreveporters who blazed a path in our community and worked to create a better environment are referred to as “Pioneers.”
Learning about contributions of Pioneers who facilitated change that improved the lives of all citizens and the quality life for Shreveport requires that we learn from history. Current leaders and rising voices, our best hope to effect change in the future, live in the shadows of these Pioneers.
An immediate take-away from this event is to recognize that lessons we teach to our youngest children come alive in the images of those who seek change. Sunday School lessons should resound with the necessity of honoring the Golden Rule and respecting the rights of others. Simple truths that adults easily forget too often go without proper notice as adults over focus on material Read more
