This script by local author Steve Yelon traces the path of East Lansing pastor Truman Morrison and his wife, Eleanor. In 1954, in a suburb of Chicago, plans to integrate their church were met with opposition. How do powerful religious principals stand up against group pressure fueled by prejudice and greed?
Directed by Jane Falion, it features: Ken Beachler, Mark Bethea, Shannon Bowen, Ann Carlson, Erin Hoffman, Ben Holzhausen, Matt Ottinger, Greg Pratt, Bob Purosky, Gloria Vivalda Purosky, Travis Williams, Adam Woolsey and Meghan Eldred Woolsey.
The time period was the 1950’s to 1960’s. Thousands of black men, women, and children fled the discrimination and violence of the south. In several Chicago suburbs black families were attacked. Across the nation neighborhoods instituted covenants that banned blacks and other minorities from owning homes. Joseph McCarthy was holding hearings to “root out Communists amongst us,”. The struggle against racism and segregation entered the mainstream of American life.
Truman Morrison a pastor in the Chicago suburbs was actively involved in the Civil Rights Movement. He was committed to peace, justice and the dignity of every human being. He spoke out and demonstrated for the Open Occupancy Ordinance in East Lansing thus beginning the integration of East Lansing.
Eleanor Morrison wrote books about human sexuality and feminist theology. She initiated rhythmic choir and interpretive dance to the church. She was a pioneering professor at MSU and a staunch advocate for justice for LGBTQ rights.
ONE SHOW ONLY
Saturday, March 7, 7pm
Free of charge; donations accepted.
www.riverwalktheatre.com