Barbara Jordan was a woman of many accolades: she was the first African American elected to the Texas Senate since Reconstruction, the first southern Black woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, and one of the first two African Americans elected to the U.S. House from the former Confederacy since 1901, alongside Georgia's own, Andrew Young. Despite these many superlatives, only one word is placed on her headstone: teacher. She wanted to be remembered as someone who shared wisdom to make the world a better place. 

On March 5th, we gathered in GPB Studios to honor her legacy and continue her life's work of uplifting communities through civic understanding, storytelling, and the steadfast belief that every voice has the power to shape a more just and compassionate society. We were joined by D4 Women In Action and The Links, Incorporated Atlanta (GA) as community partners for this event and were key partners in making that night a success. 

Special thanks to our panelists Alex Alsobrooks, Mo Ivory, Marci Chapman McKenna, Tameka West, and moderator Rhonda Briggins for the knowledge and wisdom they brought to the panel discussion. Attendees left the event inspired and motivated to enact change in their communities. 

A speaker on stage addresses an audience in a large auditorium with tiered seating.

GPB Vice President of Engagement and Development Emmalee Hackshaw speaks to the audience before the event.

Didn't catch the film? Watch it here now!