Birmingham City Schools Students Born in 1963 Invited to Commemorate Civil Rights Legacy at Kelly Ingram Park

Special to The Times

Sixty-three years after Birmingham became the epicenter of the American Civil Rights Movement, community leaders are inviting Birmingham City Schools alumni born in 1963 to participate in a special commemorative gathering in the Birmingham Civil Rights District starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 19.

Activities will include the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and Kelly Ingram Park, a national historic site of pivotal nonviolent demonstrations for freedom and justice. The community gathering and “Longest Table of Joy” will honor the 63rd anniversary of Birmingham’s defining Civil Rights year.

“Sixty-three years later, we have an opportunity to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us while recommitting ourselves to the ongoing work of building a more just and equitable society,” said Bettina Byrd-Giles, one of the event organizers.

“This gathering is about remembrance, gratitude, community, and carrying forward the spirit of hope and determination that changed Birmingham and the world.”

This commemoration of the lives and legacy of those born during one of the most pivotal years in American history will offer opportunities for storytelling, reflection, and fellowship, while honoring the courage and sacrifices of individuals who helped transform the nation through peaceful resistance. These actions contributed to the passing of landmark legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Participants are encouraged to wear something yellow, symbolizing resistance, resilience, reclamation, and joy. The gathering will also recognize the generations whose struggles and achievements have shaped the nation’s journey toward freedom and equality.

Organized in partnership with Brother Let’s Talk, participants will share in a table experience designed to foster conversation, connection, and community across generations and backgrounds in the Longest Table of Joy.

Community members interested in participating, volunteering, or partnering with the event are encouraged to contact the organizers for additional information at: 4am.sixtythree@gmail.com.