Over 100 individuals enjoyed two free screenings of Glory on the Boston Common and at the Bright Family Screening Room, Emerson College, hosted by the City of Boston, National Park Service, Friends of the Public Garden, and the Museum of African American History.
At the outdoor screening, under the stars on Boston Common, David Hencke, Executive Offer, 54th Mass Volunteer Regiment, explained the historical signifigance of the regiment in modern context, joined by Gerald Grimes of the 54th Mass Volunteer Regiment. Marita Rivero, President & CEO of the Museum of African American History, shared the history of the 54th and the memorials impact on todays national dialogue of race. At the Emerson Screening, Michael Creasey, General Superintendent, National Parks of Boston, highlighted the importance of the memorial as a national landmark, and why its position on Boston Common is significant to Bostons own history.
Both screenings were introduced by Byron Rushing, Shaw 54th Memorial Restoration Committee Member. Rushing encouraged viewers to look at the film critically, and do their own research on how accurately the film depicts the actual 54th Regiment and the events that took place leading up to the Battle of Fort Wagner. After the Emerson Screening, Rushing was joined by Dr. Martin Blatt, Northeastern University, for a post film discussion. Their discussion highlighted the impact of Glory on the public when it was released, at a time when media depictions of African-Americans were often negative.
To learn more about the Shaw 54th Memorial Restoration, visit the project website here.
