May 19 ‘Get on the Bus’ Film Screening Sparks Dialogue on Civil Rights, Equity

A powerful evening of reflection and conversation will take place Monday, May 19, as the Talbot Family Network partners with Building African American Minds (BAAM) to present a screening of the documentary film ‘Get on the Bus’ as part of the ongoing Conversations on Race series.

The free event begins at 5:30 p.m. at BAAM’s Academic Center in Easton and includes a light dinner catered by BAAM’s Island Taste culinary team.

The contemporary ‘Get on the Bus’ film invites viewers to travel alongside 56 students and adults on a five-day journey from Kent County, Maryland, to historic civil rights landmarks in the Deep South.

Their pilgrimage, which began with a soil collection ceremony in Chestertown in May 2022, includes visits to the Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Alabama—sites that explore the legacy of slavery, racial terror, and mass incarceration in the United States.

“The film captures not just the journey, but the transformation that happens when we confront history together,” said Dina Daly, executive director of BAAM.

“We believe these conversations are essential to building a stronger, more connected community,” Daly says. “And we are proud to partner with Talbot Family Network to bring this important event to Talbot County.”

Following the screening, participants will engage in guided conversation to reflect on the film’s themes and share personal perspectives. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required at bit.ly/may19convo.

“This event is part of our commitment to fostering deeper understanding and equity in our community,” said Nancy Andrew, executive director of the Talbot Family Network. “By creating safe, honest spaces for dialogue, we are laying the groundwork for lasting change in Talbot County and beyond.”

The Conversations on Race series is designed to bring people together around themes of racial equity, justice, and community healing. Events are open to all and aim to spark meaningful discussion and awareness through storytelling, art, and shared experiences.

Learn more about ‘Get on the Bus’ at bit.ly/gotbdoc. Find more about the Talbot Family Network at www.talbotfamilynetwork.org.

AI Disclosure: The Spy and its writers may use artificial intelligence tools to support accuracy and clarity in our reporting.

Francoise Sullivan is the new Associate Editor of The Chestertown Spy and a community advocate based in Worton, Maryland. She previously served a term on the Kent County Board of Education, where she focused on transparency, fiscal responsibility, and student-centered policy. Sullivan also serves as Chair of the Kent County Chapter of the Delmarva Pride Center. Her work centers on local government, education, and civic engagement, providing clear, accessible coverage of issues affecting Kent County.