Scenes and Songs from Fannie Lou: Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Birth of a Voting Rights Heroine

Woolsey Hall, Yale University, New Haven

About the Show

Fannie Lou Hamer grew up poor. She was uneducated. As an African-American living in the rural South during the early part of the 20th century, her life choices were decidedly limited. But she was determined to make a better life for herself and for others like her. She realized that a major way to forge a path of self-determination was the power of the vote. In the latter part of her adult life, she tirelessly fought to secure voting rights for those who otherwise would be without a voice. This event celebrates the life and legacy of Fannie Lou Hamer during this, the centennial of her birth, with a number of featured presentations: a riveting panel discussion with a group of experts; a dynamic performance by actors, singers, and musicians from the acclaimed original musical Fannie Lou; introductory remarks by New Haven mayor Toni Harp; and more.