Remembering the Emanuel 9 Three Years Later

The word spread quickly but seemed too horrific to be true. But, hours later, authorities arrested a young white supremacist who opened fire during Bible study at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, killing the senior pastor and eight others. Dylann Roof, now on death row, testified he wanted to start a race war.

Three years later the world will pause to pay its respects to those who were killed by hate with a week of special services.

“Several organizations (churches, the public library, houses of worship and others) have partnered with the A.M.E. Church of South Carolina, Mother Emanuel, the city of Charleston and others to provide opportunities for youth and people of all ages to engage in meaningful dialogue about unity among all races,” said Rev. Eric Manning, senior pastor at Emanuel AME Church. “In addition to honoring the lives and legacies of the Emanuel 9 this month, the church has made a commitment for its leadership to speak out against gun violence in the country and beyond throughout the year.”

On Sunday, June 17th, a special service in remembrance of the Emanuel 9 and in recognition of the five church members who survived the shooting will be held at 9:30 a.m.

Middle school students from public and private schools will participate in a daylong forum, “Calling All Colors”, to address issues of tolerance, respect, inclusion and unity on Thursday, June 21st. E

Efforts to engage the community in a public dialogue about gun violence and racial reconciliation is scheduled for Saturday, June 23rd with a “Rally for Unity” in Charleston. Nationally-known pastor and social justice advocate, Rev. Jamal Bryant from Baltimore, is the keynote speaker.

For more details about the events, please visit www.emanuelamechurch.org.