Walking Classroom experience extends deadline

Published 6:04 pm Wednesday, January 21, 2015

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The National Park Service invites 18-25 year olds across the country to apply to participate in the 50th anniversary commemorative “walking classroom” that honors the events and people of the successful 1965 civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery.
One hundred fifty youth from the United States, its territories and the counties along the historic trail will participate in a week-long educational walking classroom that will focus on the right to march, the responsibility of all Americans to participate fully in the democratic process, and how the Selma to Montgomery March, its events and people led to the passing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
This week-long Walking Classroom (54 miles from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama) aims to be a memorable, life- changing, experience for participants.
Through discussions with the actual foot soldiers of the March, participants will learn of the strife and sacrifice that was endured for our country’s sake. Youth, even children, were not spared from the violence that occurred 50 years ago.
This journey will provide participants an opportunity to reflect and share with their peers and a broader audience the ongoing struggle for human rights, the impact of the events of 1965, and the residual influence those events have upon our nation – and the world – today.
Selected participants are responsible for transportation to and from the event’s Base Camp at the Lowndes Interpretive Center in White Hall.
Camping equipment, meals, snacks and water will be provided.
The National Park Service Law Enforcement Division and Base Camp Supervisors, 24-hours for each day of the event, will provide security.
The Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail (NHT) is extending the application period for youth to participate in this historic event.
There are only 150 spots for this five-day event, so it is encouraged to apply now.
The Walking Classroom begins in Selma Alabama on Friday March 20 and concludes on the Capital steps in Montgomery Alabama Wednesday March 25, 2015.
The application period for this once in a lifetime opportunity has been extended to Friday January 30, 2015.
Applicants must be US citizens between the ages of 18-25.
Find applications and Marchers’ Guidelines online at www.nps.gov/semo and at the Selma to Montgomery NHT, Tuskegee Institute NHS and Tuskegee Airmen NHS.
If selected, participants are responsible for transportation to and from the event’s Base Camp at the Lowndes Interpretive Center in White Hall (on US 80 midway between Selma and Montgomery Alabama).
Camping equipment, meals, snacks and water will be provided.
Security will be provided by the National Park Service Law Enforcement Division and Base Camp Supervisors, 24-hours each day of the event.

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