A coalition of civic, religious, and political leaders will gather Thursday morning, Oct. 30, at the Historic Big Bethel AME Church to call for renewed commitment to Atlanta’s legacy as a center for civil rights, equity, and inclusion.
The event, organized by the newly formed Soul of Atlanta Coalition, aims to mobilize residents and institutions to “defend Atlanta’s legacy as a global beacon for civil rights, equal opportunity, and moral courage,” according to a press release.
Mayor Andre Dickens will join former mayors Andrew Young, Bill Campbell, and Shirley Franklin, along with community leaders, including Jabari Simama and Rev. Jonathan C. Augustine, Big Bethel’s senior pastor.
The rally begins at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at 220 Auburn Ave. NE and will also be livestreamed.
Former Mayor Bill Campbell said the city’s history demands continued vigilance. “What is Atlanta if we are not the conscience of the nation—the cradle of civil rights?” he said in the press release. “Our city’s soul was built by people who refused to accept injustices.”
Franklin added that the moment calls for tangible action, not symbolism. “It is a time for all sectors in society, especially businesses that have benefited, to explain how diversity impacts their bottom line.”
The Coalition’s statement of principles warns that “hard-won tools of equity are being dismantled while fear and apathy take hold” nationwide. It outlines seven guiding principles for action, including measurable justice, civic courage, shared prosperity, accountability, solidarity across sectors, forward-looking innovation, and sustainable funding for equity initiatives.
Organizers are urging Atlantans to speak up, organize, and strengthen inclusion across the city’s political, social, and economic life.
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