A community event co-sponsored by Fayette Together will be held on the campus of Central Methodist University, as a public screening and discussion of the acclaimed documentary Two Towns of Jasper will take place on Saturday, April 11. The event will begin at 11:30 a.m. on the fourth floor of CMU’s Inman Student and Community Center.
This groundbreaking film explores the aftermath of the 1998 murder of James Byrd Jr. in Jasper, Texas, thought to be one of the most brutal hate crimes in recent U.S. history. The movie uses an innovative approach: two documentary crews – one Black, one white – filmed in parallel, capturing different community perspectives and inviting honest reflection on race, justice, and reconciliation. It prompts viewers to think about how race shapes the way they experience events, history, and life in America.
“We believe this film can serve as a meaningful catalyst for dialogue in our own community,” said Lue Lockridge-Lane, board member of Fayette Together and 2024 recipient of the Lea Tindall Memorial Award, given by Central’s African American Student Union. “Though the events took place more than 25 years ago, issues of racial injustice, division, and systemic bias are still very present today.
“This is an opportunity for us, as a community, to watch together, reflect together, and talk openly about hard but necessary topics. The goal is not blame or shame – it is learning, listening, and growing toward greater understanding and compassion,” she said.
Sponsored by Fayette Together, CMU’s Center for Faith and Service, and both St. Paul and Linn Memorial United Methodist Churches, the event is meant to foster honest dialogue about race, justice, and violence in American society. Organizers hope those in attendance will be able to build empathy by seeing and hearing diverse perspectives and discovering shared values as they reflect on how justice and healing can grow within their own community, then identify steps to take to make that community more inclusive and equitable.
The screening and discussion are open to all and free to attend, with heavy refreshments to be served. For questions or to RSVP, email Lockridge-Lane at luelockridgelane@yahoo.com.