This month, events across the city honor the victims and survivors of the Mother Emanuel AME murders
June 17 marks three years since a gunman killed nine parishioners during Bible study at Emanuel AME Church. Here, find free exhibits, demonstrations, and gatherings that memorialize the victims and honor the survivors by encouraging unity and spurring us on to better love our neighbors.
“A Dialogue in Black & White” - Through June 10
City Gallery’s latest exhibition,“A Dialogue in Black and White,” touches on some of today’s most divisive subjects—from Black Lives Matter to mental health to spirituality. The exhibit pairs two artists of differing backgrounds to create separate works surrounding a common theme. City Gallery, 34 Prioleau St. Open daily, hours vary. (843) 958-6484, citygalleryatwaterfrontpark.com
“A Moment of Silence…To Love” - June 1-30
Visit this display, dedicated to Emanuel AME victim Cynthia Graham Hurd, and contribute by posting a note of gratitude to the devoted librarian. The first 100 children receive a free book provided by the Cynthia Graham Hurd Foundation. John L. Dart Library, 1067 King St. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ccpl.org
“Life & Legacy of Cynthia Graham Hurd” - June 16-30
Library patrons can view this memorial exhibit at Charleston County Public Library’s main branch, where photos document the librarian’s exemplary 31-year career. Charleston County Public Library, Main Library, 68 Calhoun St. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 2-5 p.m. ccpl.org
Samaritan’s Feet Outreach Project - June 16
Join the Emanuel AME congregation and the community for a day of service with Samaritan’s Feet, a nonprofit providing hope to families through the donation of shoes and the ministry of foot washing. Buist Academy, 103 Calhoun St. Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. emanuelamechurch.org
Morning Worship Service - June 17
Emanuel AME opens its doors for a special Sunday service. Reverend Matthew L. Watley guest preaches, and the 2018 Mother Emanuel Leadership Awards are presented. Emanuel AME Church, 110 Calhoun St. Sunday, 9:30 a.m. emanuelamechurch.org
Kindness Rocks - June 18-23
Hurd/St. Andrews Regional Library presents Kindness Rocks, a week of activities and projects for all ages that promote kindness and compassion. Kids can decorate “kindness” rocks, write positive notes for others, participate in a food drive, sign the reading pledge, and more. Hurd/St. Andrews Regional Library, 1735 N. Woodmere Dr. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ccpl.org
Community Bible Study - June 20
The Praise and Worship Team from Seacoast Church joins the Emanuel AME congregation for an evening of worship music, prayerful remembrance, and a Bible study co-led by Reverend Eric Manning and Reverend Anthony Thompson, husband of the late Mrs. Myra Thompson. Emanuel AME Church, 110 Calhoun St. Wednesday, 6 p.m. emanuelamechurch.org
Calling All Colors - June 21
Middle schoolers are invited to participate in this all-day event in which community leaders, educators, elected officials, and artists present interactive sessions on subjects such as tolerance and unity. Emanuel AME Church, 110 Calhoun St. Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. emanuelamechurch.org
Charleston Forum - June 21
The second annual Charleston Forum seeks to engage a diverse audience in an open dialogue about race, equity, and social justice issues. More than 30 national and local speakers provide insight on topics of economics and education; policing and criminal justice; and Charleston’s past, present, and future. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. Thursday, 7:30-9:30 p.m. thecharlestonforum.com
Emanuel 9 Rally for Unity - June 23
During the Rally for Unity, a number of leaders and musicians take the stage, including keynote speaker Reverend Dr. Jamal H. Bryant and Mayor Tecklenburg, the band Ranky Tanky, and legendary folk singer Joan Baez. Marion Square, 329 Meeting St. Saturday, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Find the event on Facebook.
Morning Grace Gospel Finale - June 24
This year, the annual Morning Grace Gospel Finale at Emanuel AME takes on the theme “We Survive.” The concert and worship experience features the Mother Emanuel Mass Choir and the contributions of a number of other musicians, dancers, and performers. Emanuel AME Church, 110 Calhoun St. Sunday, 4:30 p.m. emanuelamechurch.org
