02/08/2022
Sometimes history pays a visit: We were recently honored by a visit from Mr. Leroy Moton and his son, Leroy Moton Jr. at our Montgomery Interpretive Center.
The two men are pictured standing next to an interpretive display of the events 57 years ago, when then 19-year-old Leroy Moton was heading back to Montgomery after helping to shuttle marchers at the conclusion of the March. He was traveling with Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) volunteer, Viola Liuzzo. Along the 54-mile drive, they were followed and the occupants of the vehicle opened fire on the Liuzzo car. (It was later determined that the passengers in the other car were Ku Klux Klan members and Liuzzo was shot and killed in the attack.)
During the ambush, Moton hit his head on the dashboard and passed out from the injury. When he came to, he realized that the vehicle had come to a stop on the side of the road. In the darkness, Moton found Liuzzo unresponsive and he went to find help.
A few days ago, Mr. Moton and his son traveled back to Alabama to participate in the Trail Oral History Project. His story and others who participated and witnessed the events surrounding this crucial point in American history stand as reminders as to what was at stake, what was sacrificed, and how far we still have to go.
(NPS Photo)
