Exploring history and justice in Montgomery
September 3, 2026 Amber Cordell
Students, scholars and participants in the Pathways to Inclusive Leadership program visited the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama.
This summer, Emory Global’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), in partnership with Workplace Culture and Belonging and the Emory University Chaplaincy, organized a day-long educational trip to Montgomery, Alabama, for members of the Emory community, including students, scholars, staff, spouses and participants in Emory's Pathways to Inclusive Leadership program.
The experience centered on visits to two Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) sites: The Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. Through exhibits, personal narratives, historical artifacts and opportunities for reflection, participants explored the history of slavery, segregation, racial violence and their lasting impact on American society.
For many participants, the trip provided valuable context for understanding the historical and cultural development of the United States. Attendees explored complex historical topics while reflecting on how societies confront difficult histories, preserve collective memory and work toward a more just future.
“The Montgomery field trip was a deeply emotional experience for me,” says Jafet Baca, a PhD candidate in economics from Nicaragua. “Ultimately, this experience made me more empathetic.”
Many participants remarked on the impact of encountering these histories in person and the value of learning beyond the classroom.
“This trip was incredibly meaningful to me, and it brought me to tears more than once,” says Emory College student Henley Adams from Jacksonville, Florida.
“As someone who studies political science and history, visiting [these sites] brought history to life in a way that no textbook ever could,” Adams adds. “It taught me that how we preserve and present history has the power to spark reflection, empathy and conversations that continue long after you leave. It's an experience that changed the way I think about our history and one that I'll carry with me."
The trip reflects a commitment to student and scholar flourishing by creating opportunities for experiential learning, intercultural engagement and meaningful community building.
As Shinn Ko, associate vice provost for international services and global engagement, says, “Experiences like this provide opportunities to engage with important historical perspectives while fostering learning, cultural awareness, and meaningful connections among participants.”
To learn more about upcoming ISSS events, visit the ISSS website event page.
