James Mars Legacy: Celebrating Freedom & Activism

It's April 9th.

I'm Corey with The Story, and this is Hartford News Today, local news powered by AI.

James Mars, born in 1790, embodied the contradictions of early America's sold into slavery, right

in Connecticut, the so-called Land of.

Study habits.

He battled for his own freedom, his families, and even championed the Amistad Africans in

their uprising.

Now, discovering Amistad is hosting an event to celebrate his legacy as one of the state's

top activists.

The highlight is a keynote from his descendant, Reverend Dr. Shelley D. Best.

She's a Yale Divinity School grad, visual artist, and founder of Creative Disruptor.

Her word dives into how stories drive change, blending history, spirituality, and leadership

to reshape narratives and futures.

This gathering pulls the community together for reflection and inspiration.

Its powerful performances from Nia Arts, storytelling by Andre Ket and Gospel Vibes

from The Walkers.

It's all about honoring Mars' fight and sparking conversations on Liberty Today.

The event goes down at Connecticut's old State House on Main Street in Hartford.

Parking is easy at the nearby State House Square Garage for just $10 with validation,

or grab free street spots after 6 pm.

As we lift up voices like Mars through the Amistad lens, it reminds us to keep dismantling

barriers for real freedom.

Join in and carry that story forward.