“Negro Spirituals” presented by Walter Green, local historian and Race Unity of Carbondale member, along with the Grigsby Sisters. As we continue our look at Honest History and the celebration of America’s 250th birthday, this service will have selected scriptures to complement the message by Walter while the Grigsby Sisters will accompany and render four songs that demonstrate the beauty of spiritual and gospel songs. Vern Cline, of Race Unity of Carbondale, will introduce some of the spirituals with readings. Music by the Grigsby Sisters. Services are in person and on Zoom.

Walter Green’s bio: I am a native son of Carbondale, Illinois. I grew up under segregation until I was 14 years old. My Carbondale high school class, the Class of 1968, was the first to complete four years under integration. I hold a BA in history from Southern Illinois University and an MA from the University of Miami. I taught history in Miami-Dade County Public Schools for 33 years and served as a School Board administrator for 3 years. After retiring, I worked as a regional director for The Miami Coalition of Christians and Jews, implementing diversity programs in selected schools. My second retirement allowed me to assist schools, churches and communities at large, with organizing programs related to African American History.