14-05-2025
Town hall to honor the legacy of Cynthia Graham Hurd and the Emanuel 9
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A town hall happening in June will honor the memory of Cynthia Graham Hurd and the Emanuel 9, while also reflecting on progress made since the June 2015 tragedy and the path forward for the community and nation.
This June will mark 10 years since the Charleston Church Shooting, which claimed the lives of nine people as they attended Bible study at Emanuel AME Church. Among those victims was Hurd, a beloved librarian and community leader.
The Cynthia Graham Hurd Foundation for Reading, Literacy and Civic Engagement was established to engage the community through Hurd's love and appreciation for reading.
Organizers say the town hall will begin with a praise and worship service honoring Hurd's legacy. It will feature a performance by the 'A Sign of the Times' band with guest artist Toni Tupponce.
After the service, attorney and former South Carolina Rep. Bakari Sellers will moderate a panel discussion, 'What's the Way Forward: 10 Years After Charleston' featuring Dr. Tonya Matthews, president and CEO of the International African American Museum, and foundation director Hon. Malcom Graham, Cynthia's brother and author of the book 'The Way Forward'.
The event will take place on the evening of June 12 at Emanuel AME Church (110 Calhoun Street).
There is no admission fee; however, attendees are encouraged to donate a children's book in support of Cynthia's passion for literacy. Those books will benefit local Charleston reading programs.
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