Birmingham to Host Inspiring Discussion with Daryl Davis
Birmingham, get ready for an evening filled with the power of conversation and understanding! On September 10, the Alabama Holocaust Education Center is hosting its annual “To Life, L’Chaim” event at the Wright Center on the Samford University campus. From 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., community members are invited to join in a panel discussion featuring the incredible musician and activist Daryl Davis.
A Musical Journey and a Mission Against Hate
Daryl Davis is no stranger to breaking down barriers, both through his music and through his remarkable activism. Known for his work in jazz, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll, Davis has shared the stage with legendary artists like Chuck Berry. But what sets him apart is not just his impressive music career; it’s his tireless efforts to fight against racism. He’s gained national attention for his unique approach of engaging in open conversations with members of the Ku Klux Klan, successfully persuading many to leave the hate group.
Panel Discussion and Sharing Stories
At the event, Davis will be joining a panel alongside a former Neo-Nazi. Together, they will discuss what draws people into extremist groups and how we can work towards helping them exit these movements. “I will be with a very good friend of mine who is a former Neo-Nazi,” Davis commented on what to expect. “We will talk about how we can get people out of these movements, and how we need to address these issues.”
This engaging program will also feature music, spoken word, and a community choir, all aimed at promoting empathy and understanding among attendees. The focus of the event is to benefit the Alabama Holocaust Education Center and their mission to combat hatred and prejudice.
Lessons from a Young Age
Daryl Davis’s journey towards activism began long before he ever stepped into the spotlight as a musician. Born in Chicago, he spent his childhood overseas due to his parents’ work as foreign officers. This unique upbringing exposed him to diverse cultures from a young age, leading him to ask profound questions about race and humanity. A pivotal moment came when he was just 10 years old.
As one of the only Black kids in his school in Belmont, Massachusetts, Davis faced ridicule during a parade where a small group of onlookers threw rocks at him. “For the first time in my life, my mom and dad sat me down and explained racism,” he recalled. That shocking revelation led him to wonder why some people harbor hatred towards others they don’t even know.
A Life Dedicated to Understanding
Since then, Davis has made it his life’s mission to find answers to that childhood question: “How can you hate me when you don’t even know me?” His quest for understanding has led him to seek out and engage with Klan members and other extremists, breaking down their walls through personal dialogue.
“It’s important to the democracy of this country,” Davis said, emphasizing the urgency of addressing prejudice to prevent atrocities like the Holocaust. His work speaks to the heart of community and the necessity of talking openly and honestly about race and hate.
A Creative Spirit and Musical Legacy
Besides being a passionate activist, Davis is also a talented musician. He pursued a degree in music at Howard University and has worked with iconic musicians throughout his career. Despite initial pushback from his parents regarding his career choice, Davis found success in the music industry, and his love for performance remains a key part of who he is.
As someone who has performed with the likes of B.B. King and Elvis Presley’s Jordanaires, Davis blends his musical talents with his mission to foster dialogue about race and racism.
Join the Conversation
The upcoming “To Life, L’Chaim” event is set to be a powerful gathering, offering a chance for community members to engage in meaningful conversations about empathy, understanding, and the importance of bridging divides. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from Daryl Davis, learn from his experiences, and take part in an inspiring evening focused on connection and compassion.
Mark your calendars for September 10 and join us at the Wright Center on Samford University’s campus for this important event. Together, we can make a difference!
