Honoring Rev. Nelson Johnson: A Conversation with Aran Shetterly
Today’s guest is Aran Shetterly, an award-winning writer, author, editor, and poet. Aran previously appeared on Chatting with Betsy to discuss his book, MORNINGSIDE: The 1979 Greensboro Massacre and the Struggle for an American City’s Soul. That interview aired on January 13, 2025.
This episode is dedicated to Rev. Nelson Johnson, who passed away on February 9, 2025. America has lost a true hero—someone who devoted his life to peace, civil rights, and equality for all.
Remembering the Greensboro Massacre
In this interview, we revisit the tragic events of November 3, 1979, when five people were killed and ten others injured in just 88 seconds while marching for peace and civil rights. Aran discusses the long fight for justice and how it took over 40 years for Greensboro to issue an official apology in 2020—yet no one was ever held accountable.
Radical Love & Rev. Nelson Johnson’s Legacy
Aran also explores the concept of radical love, which extends beyond romantic and community love. Rev. Nelson Johnson embodied this principle, striving for unity and change. One of his most profound acts of reconciliation was meeting with a former Klansman in 1987, extending an olive branch to prevent another march in his town.
Despite being unfairly blamed for the Greensboro Massacre, Rev. Johnson remained committed to his community, working tirelessly to create a society where all people could live in peace and harmony.
Interracial Love & the Legacy of Loving v. Virginia
Our discussion also touched on interracial relationships—once widely rejected but now more accepted. I shared a personal experience from 1974 when I was not allowed to date someone because of their skin color. Aran, who is married to Margot Lee Shetterly, author of Hidden Figures, reflected on how interracial marriage was illegal in Virginia until 1967. He also discussed the landmark Loving v. Virginia case, which helped end such discriminatory laws.
A Must-Read Book
MORNINGSIDE is a powerful and moving book that I highly recommend. In my opinion, this book belongs in every high school and college library. I was thrilled to find it in my local bookstore!
📖 Where to Get the Book
You can purchase MORNINGSIDE from:
🔹 Bookshop.org
🔹 Aran Shetterly’s Website
🎧 Don’t Miss This Interview!
This conversation is both insightful and deeply relevant today. Be sure to listen and reflect on the lessons of history, love, and justice: 📍📍 Click here to listen…
Contact Information
Aran Shetterly: https://www.aranshetterly.com/
Host Page: Betsy Wurzel
Personal Page on Facebook
Group Facebook Page Facebook
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Subscribe to: Amazon Music: Chatting with Betsy
https://www.spreaker.com/show/chatting-with-betsy
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