For the February meeting, FIG members will have the opportunity to take a FREE tour of the Without Sanctuary Exhibit at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The exhibit is a collection of photographs and postcards of lynchings and historical accounts to help bring the exhibit into context. In the late 1800’s and early 1900’s almost 4000 documented lynchings occurred in this country with African-Americans being the victims in the vast majority.
Photographs taken at some of these horrible incidents were turned into mass-produced post cards that were distributed in the mail and shared among friends. The exhibit is based on the 2000 book by James Allen, who went around the country collecting examples of these postcards.
The exhibit does share the information in graphic detail, but the larger social message is an important reminder. Unfortunately this was an acceptable practice in this country, despite the massive amount of pain and turmoil it brought to its victims. As freethinkers, it is important be aware of this history and be vigilant in our efforts to not allow history to repeat itself. At the conclusion of the tour, we also have a room reserved for us, so we are able to share reactions and discuss modern day implications of this history.
Tour Details: FIG members should gather at 1:00PM in the lobby of the Freedom Center (50 E. Freedom Way, 45202). Main entrance is at the doors facing towards the Ohio River/Roebling Suspension Bridge. A Pay Parking lot is available underneath the building which you enter through Pete Rose Way (the street is next to the Bengals stadium and then weaves back underneath to the Freedom Center) or since it is Sunday, meters are free if you want to park 1 or 2 blocks away and walk. |
