Our final week of preparations

During the past week we had two experiences that were prominent to me. We met with Dr. Thomas McCabe and had a really insightful conversation about the history of Newark in terms of Civil Rights. I really enjoyed his visit because if feel like I got to see how economic problems as well as racial tensions propelled much of the civil rights history here in Newark. When I think of Civil Rights, I usually think of the Deep South and all the stuff everyone usually hears about. I think it was really eye opening to see that a lot of civil rights history happened on the very ground I walk on everyday. It makes me think of how when we're on this trip we will be thinking about the history of the place we will be when we should also think about the history of the place we are.

The second experience was watching To Kill a Mockingbird on Broadway. I've never been to a play like it before and though I read the book and watched the movie, I think the play is my favorite rendition of the story. I feel like was so engaged in the story because of the intensity of every single scene. Every scene performed on that stage was important, and I was literally on the edge of my seat the entire time. I loved the children's performance, Calphurnia, and also Atticus Finch. I think my favorite was Bob Ewell because as the villain I think he really succeeded in making the audience dislike him. I know I strongly dislike the character of Bob Ewell and actor Fred Weller definitely does the character justice.

In conclusion I think
this week was really a good set up for the trip. I'm excited for our departure and I'm ready to really dig into the course!