Empact Inc. Summer Leadership Program Hosts Birmingham Children's Crusade Survivors

The Empact Inc. Summer Leadership Program's Rising Star Youth recently had the honor of welcoming special guests Gloria Washington Lewis Randall, Gwendolyn Gamble, and Gwendolyn Cook Webb, three inspiring survivors of the historic Birmingham Children's Crusade of 1963. This momentous occasion marked the 60th Anniversary of a significant chapter in civil rights history. Empact Inc., a 501c3 not-for-profit organization, provides an academic leadership and enrichment summer program for 100 youth from Kindergarten through 7th grade. Additionally, 13 participants from the Summer Youth Employment Program gained paid entry-level work experience through the Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing, and Consumer Affairs.

On July 11, the Empact Inc. Summer Leadership Program dedicated a special day to commemorate the bravery and resilience of the Birmingham Children's Crusade survivors. The three courageous women shared their personal stories with the youth, recounting the harrowing experiences they endured, including brutal water hose and dog attacks by the police in Birmingham, Alabama. Their accounts served as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced during the fight for racial equality.

During the event, the survivors also taught the children some of the empowering songs that were sung during the Children's Crusade march, including "We Shall Overcome" and "I Ain't Gon Let Nobody Turn Me Around." Through these songs, the young participants connected with the spirit of the Civil Rights Movement and learned about the importance of unity, resilience, and standing up against injustice.

The presentation was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Suffolk County Legal Aid Society in collaboration with the Islip Town Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the oldest civil rights organization still actively fighting against injustices today. The event also garnered the presence of esteemed individuals, including Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and the First African American Female Deputy County Executive, Vanessa Baird-Streeter.

As a gesture of gratitude, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Deputy County Executive Vanessa Baird-Streeter presented each survivor with a Suffolk County Proclamation. This proclamation acknowledged their tremendous courage and unwavering commitment to the pursuit of racial equality.

Suffolk County Legislators Samuel Gonzalez (9th District) and Jason Richberg (15th District) had the opportunity to address the youth and survivors, emphasizing the importance of taking a stand and coming together to fight for what is right. They urged everyone to treat others with respect, dignity, and love, inspiring the young leaders to advocate for positive change within their communities.

The event was also attended by distinguished individuals who continue to play vital roles in their respective fields. Town of Babylon Councilman DuWayne Gregory, Central Islip Superintendent Dr. Sharon Dungee, Byron McCray, and Kwani O'Pharrow of Cops N' Kids Long Island, Laurette Mulry from the Suffolk County Legal Aid Society, and members of the Islip Town Branch NAACP Executive Board and Empact Inc. Board of Directors joined forces to create a supportive and inclusive environment for the survivors and youth alike.

The Empact Inc. Summer Leadership Program's Rising Star Youth experienced a truly transformative day as they commemorated the 60th Anniversary of the Birmingham Children's Crusade with the presence of three incredible survivors. This event served as a reminder of the importance of learning from history, standing up against injustice, and working together to create a more equitable and inclusive society. Empact Inc. remains committed to empowering young leaders and fostering positive change within their communities, inspired by the indomitable spirit of those who fought for civil rights.