By Penina Kessler

Being a complete music buff, a trip to Graceland to view Elvis’ home seemed worth the prospect of an early morning wake up call. I braved countless rooms of tacky 1970s prints until seeing the trophy room, where I was astounded at the magnitude of Elvis’ success. However, I found the lack of information about his personal life disappointing as I didn’t get to know him well while visiting.

Graceland - jungle room

Graceland - trophy room

Elvis statue on Beale Street

After a quick stop on Beale Street for lunch, we headed to the Lorraine Motel which houses the National Civil Rights Museum. Being a part of the place where Dr. King was shot, where history actually happened, was an incredible experience. I especially enjoyed the “eracism” shirts in the gift shop. After visiting the monument to the trials of those who fought for Civil Rights, we spoke with Jaclyn Smith, a woman who has devoted the last 20 years to fighting the creation of the museum. She argues that Dr. King’s legacy would be better served by a community center.

discussing Abraham Joshua Heschel in front of the Civil Rights Museum

meeting with Jaclyn Smith

This debate over gentrification was continued during our 2 hour drive into Little Rock. Our first stop was the site of the Little Rock 9. They were nine kids who integrated Central High School. This is where we sat down and discussed the issue of Federalism, and then to prepare for our upcoming meetings we spoke as a group about abortion. Billy kept us on our toes by forcing us to consider the opposing side of our arguments.

at Little Rock Central High School

Afterwards we went to our hotel for some swimming and dinner. We then went downtown and had our wrap up along the river and saw the actual Little Rock. After a day filled with laughs, AP Exam results, music, debate and passion, it was good to unwind.