EXPLORING THE PAST.
REDEEMING THE PRESENT.
INSPIRING THE FUTURE.
The Columbia Peace & Justice Initiative (CPJI) explores the legacy of African American history in Maury County, Tenn., and promotes justice in the present day. CPJI’s work is guided and informed by four essential pillars: exploring history, promoting justice, expanding understanding and inspiring conversation.
We explore history by bringing light to important stories that have remained untold or overlooked for too long, from the historic black business district on East 8th Street to the pivotal events of 1946.
We promote justice as advocates for equity in Maury County, driving community-wide positive change through relationships, empowerment and education.
We expand understanding of our community’s place in civil rights history and the enduring impact of inequality that Maury County still grapples with today.
We inspire conversations about current issues that affect our world, bringing leadership to the table to amplify collective impact and build bridges in our community.
THE 1946 COLUMBIA RACE RIOT
In February 1946, a riot erupted in Columbia, following the arrest of a young Black World War II veteran named James Stephenson. CPJI is dedicated to ensuring the true story of 1946 is told, how it set in motion civil rights efforts across the nation and the long-lasting ripples that are still seen today.
WALKING THE PATH OF JUSTICE
Since 2019, CPJI has organized immersive two-day trips for diverse groups of Maury County community members, allowing them to explore the civil rights landscape. During these journeys, participants engage in impactful conversations with civil rights leaders, visit key landmarks and gain insights from the National Memorial for Peace and Justice.
CELEBRATING MAURY COUNTY’S
AFRICAN AMERICAN HEROES
Bernard Childress
2023 Honoree
CPJI’s annual Legacy Luncheons pay tribute to the African Americans who have left an indelible mark on the Columbia and Maury County communities. Participants celebrate the lives and legacies of the luncheon’s honorees all while supporting the mission of CPJI.
FOSTERING COMMUNITY DIALOGUE
Stand Together Fellowship is a platform for Columbia’s diverse community of voices to have open dialogue. These bimonthly meetings take place at the Columbia Police Department and cover topics of local and national importance.
“There are ways in which you can have difficult conversations with your community and still be a community.”
