The 2025 Civil Rights Heritage Tour of the South exceeded my expectations. First, the diversity of the group (age, race, gender, cultural background, etc.) was pleasantly surprising. These diverse participants established camaraderie quickly and easily. Second, the tour guides, Napoleon, Toni and Ida demonstrated respect, interest and concern for each participant and for each other (so did the bus driver). In addition, they were friendly and lots of fun! Third, the tour was a journey back to my childhood growing up in the south, living through segregation, racism and the Jim Crow system. While I thought about positive changes that have occurred in this country with race relations, I was also reminded of man's inhumanity to man as we visited various locations such as museums, churches, parks and underground railroad sites. Fourth, the extent of involvement of well known activists, lesser known "foot soldiers," and various institutions' roles in the civil rights movement was evident. Being in the actual locations was also enlightening and often heartbreaking. Walking in the path of these giants was gratifying and also overwhelming at times. Fifth, the living facilities were very nice: clean, free breakfast, accommodating. And, finally, I highly recommend this tour for everyone.

Toni & Napoleon led this tour with a great depth of knowledge and insight. They demonstrated cool, calm, unifying leadership throughout. Such a once in a lifetime experience to learn our nation’s civil rights history with excellent people of all ages and backgrounds….priceless!

Another great experience!

This was a most rewarding experience for me. The exposure and knowledge I acquired is far more than I ever imagined. Toni, Napoleon, and Ida did a superior job organizing and implementing this tour from every aspect. Thank you.

Absolutely fantastic experience in learning so much important history! It serves to motivate to continue the fight for justice, acknowledge the sins of the past, progress made, and progress yet to be made. Itinerary was well planned, and the tour leaders could not have been better!