Unveiling Roots and Love: A Deep Dive into Social Justice at Alex Haley Farm

Recently, I had the privilege of attending the 29th Annual Samuel DeWitt Proctor Institute for Child Advocacy Ministry’s retreat, organized by the Children’s Defense Fund and held in the serene setting of its Alex Haley Farm in Clinton, Tennessee This four-day journey was akin to a homecoming, a return to our roots, and a rekindling of our unwavering commitment to social justice.

The retreat provided a unique opportunity to blend faith with high-level thinking and engaging dialogues. One such enlightening session was the Fearless Dialogue, guided by Dr. Greg. It led us to expand our horizons, intensify our community-focused solutions, and foster stronger networks — a testament to the potency of collaboration.

During this transformative journey, I delved into the heroic strides of Parthia Hall, a torchbearer during the civil rights era. I was enlightened to learn that the famous “I have a dream” line, attributed to Martin Luther King Jr., was indeed sought from Hall. This compelling piece of history amplified my respect for the influential yet less well-known historical figures.

The intentional design of the breathtaking Alex Haley Farm nurtured new connections. The distance from the tent to the chapel allowed just enough time to spark and nurture meaningful dialogues. This process of meeting and engaging with new individuals filled the retreat with warmth and acceptance.

I was accompanied by my girlfriend, who experienced a noticeable transformation during the retreat. Although not deeply invested in faith or social justice before, she became captivated by each speaker, culminating in a deep dive into three enlightening books that we continue to explore even a week after our return home.

Deconstructing Bible stories and creating vivid contexts around these narratives led to introspective journeys. This newly informed understanding significantly shaped my approach toward the LGBTQ+ community, especially as I recently became a father. It reinforced my belief that my duty is not to judge or alter others, but to emanate God’s love.

The enlightening journey at the Alex Haley Farm was undoubtedly a transformative retreat. The echoes of these experiences continue to resonate within my girlfriend and me, strengthening our commitment to love and social justice. As we step forward, we are equipped with a refreshed understanding and an unshakeable commitment to making a difference in our community.