Discover Live's Virtual Juneteenth Presentation: Exploring the African American History of Memphis

Come join us for an educational and emotionally charged Juneteenth celebration event co-sponsored by NAAP and Discover Live. This is the first of three events in this series.

This will be a virtual journey through the rich African American history of Memphis. This captivating 60-minute live presentation will take you on an enlightening and entertaining exploration of the city's significant landmarks, stories, and contributions to the civil rights movement.

• (What will I be learning?) During this engaging presentation, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of Memphis's pivotal role in the African American experience. Our knowledgeable guide, renowned as the number-one tour operator in the city, will share insights into the city's triumphs, struggles, and enduring legacy. From the Mississippi Riverfront, where the city was born, to the iconic Beale Street, known as the "Home of the Blues," you'll uncover the untold stories and hidden gems that have shaped Memphis's rich cultural tapestry.
• (Where will this tour begin?) Your virtual journey will commence at the Mississippi Riverfront, the birthplace of Memphis. Here, you'll witness the city's origins and gain insights into its historical significance as a hub for trade and transportation.
• (What will I see/experience during this tour?) Prepare to be captivated by a visually stunning presentation featuring photographs, videos, and narration that bring Memphis's African American history to life. You'll delve into the stories of the Slave Haven, a site that documents the history of the Underground Railroad, and St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, one of the first integrated hospitals in the South, known for its groundbreaking work in treating children with catastrophic diseases.
• Our guide will take you on a virtual stroll down Beale Street, where you'll learn "the rest of the story" about this iconic street, officially named the "Home of the Blues" by an act of Congress in 1977. You'll also visit the National Civil Rights Museum, housed in the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, tracing the Civil Rights Movement from its roots to the present day.
• (Where will this tour conclude?) Your virtual Juneteenth presentation will culminate with a profound exploration of the National Civil Rights Museum and the Lorraine Motel, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the sacrifices and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement and its enduring impact on Memphis and the nation.

Throughout this captivating presentation, you'll have the opportunity to engage with our knowledgeable guide, ask questions, and gain a comprehensive understanding of Memphis's African American history.