Central Nova News

The Alexandria Community Remembrance Project (ACRP) has announced the return of its Tables of Conscience dinners, which are designed to raise funds for scholarships in honor of Joseph McCoy and Benjamin Thomas, two African American teenagers who were lynched in Alexandria. These events will be held on October 26, November 2, and November 16, 2024.

The dinners will involve discussions based on books addressing racial justice issues and will take place in the homes of ACRP members. Proceeds from these events will go towards funding two $3,000 scholarships for students at Alexandria City High School, to be awarded in March 2025.

Each dinner is limited to between eight and twelve participants. Reservations are required with a donation of $125 per person. Participants will receive details about their host approximately one week before the event. The organizers ask that any food allergies or preferences be noted during registration so that hosts can make accommodations.

The first dinner on October 26 features "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas, which tells the story of Starr Carter witnessing her friend's death at the hands of a police officer. On November 2, attendees will discuss "In the Pines: A Lynching, A Lie, A Reckoning" by Grace Elizabeth Hale. This book delves into a family history involving an untruthful account of a lynching. The final dinner on November 16 will focus on "The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy: and the Path to a Shared American Future" by Robert P. Jones.

Tickets can be reserved through The Alexandria Shop's website or paid via credit card or check to the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria. For those unable to attend but wishing to support the cause, donations can still be made through ACRP’s campaign page.

For more information about these events or reasonable disability accommodations, contact Nicole Quinn at historicalexandria@alexandriava.gov or call 703-746-4554.