Bayard Rustin was the unsung hero of the Civil Rights Movement. While working behind the scenes his religious passion, his sense of honor, his belief in non-violent civil disobedience, his tactical planning skills, and his considerable oratory, combined to make him one of the most influential people in the history of Social Justice. A student of Mohandas Gandhi, Rustin became an invaluable advisor and mentor to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during one of the most turbulent times in U.S. History. Rustin was also an openly gay man during an era when it was hard enough being a black man, let alone an openly gay black man. The living embodiment of what came to be called "Rainbow Politics", Bayard passed away on August 24, 1987. In 2012 a bronze memorial commemorating his extraordinary life was dedicated on Chicago's award-winning Legacy Walk.
The Legacy Live Series, on Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2016, will remember Bayard on the 29th anniversary of his passing.
- 5:30pm Ceremony, Bayard Rustin Bronze Memorial, 3314 N. Halsted
-6:30pm Screening, "Brother Outsider" at Center on Halsted 3656 N. Halsted
-8 pm Reception and Q&A, COH Leppen Theater with Walter Naegle, Bayard's surviving partner, and John D'Emilio ( Author of LOST PROPHET: The Life and Times of Bayard Rustin ), moderated by Zach Stafford ( Guardian US )
This unique evening will be presented by the Legacy Project, Center on Halsted, and the Northalsted Business Alliance, in cooperation with our presenting partner Affinity Community Services. ALL LEGACY LIVE SERIES EVENTS ARE FREE.
Tickets at the link: www.eventbrite.com/e/remembering-bayard-rustin-tickets-26893165181 .
BRINGING LGBT HISTORY TO LIFE:
The Legacy Live Series explores the stories behind our ancestors and the important milestones that have shaped LGBTQ life today. Through thought-provoking programming, and creative, entertaining events, we are bridging the gap between our past and our future for ourselves and our children.
