Betsy’s guest is Aran Shetterly, a talented writer, author, editor, and poet. Aran joined us to discuss his compelling new book, MORNINGSIDE: The 1979 Greensboro Massacre and the Struggle for an American City’s Soul.
In this interview, Aran shares how he uncovered this powerful story through Reverend Nelson Johnson and his wife, Joyce Johnson—dedicated civil rights activists from Greensboro. He delves into the tragic events of November 3, 1979, when a caravan of Klansmen and Neo-Nazis opened fire on a crowd preparing for a “Death to the Klan” march. The attack lasted just 88 seconds, leaving five people dead and ten others injured.
Aran explained that the extensive research for this book took seven years, during which he uncovered shocking truths about the massacre. We explored the deep injustices surrounding the event, the law enforcement cover-ups, and the notorious “blue wall” of silence. Despite three separate trials, no one was held accountable for the murders of the victims, who included two Jewish individuals, one Black individual, one Cuban individual, and a WASP Harvard graduate.
We also discussed the long-lasting impact on the Johnsons and their community. Reverend Nelson Johnson’s personal journey—from peaceful activism to radicalism and back to peace as a minister—offers a poignant example of transformation and healing. His efforts to bring reconciliation included working directly with a former Klansman to foster peace and unity in their community.
Aran highlighted the influence of Nelson Mandela’s post-apartheid Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of the Beloved Community on Rev. Johnson’s work to address the trauma of the past. It was deeply moving to learn that Dr. King had planned to meet with Nelson Johnson in Greensboro in April 1968, just before his assassination.
It took Greensboro officials 41 years to issue an apology for the events of November 3, 1979.
This interview is not only informative but profoundly thought-provoking. Betsy highly recommends MORNINGSIDE, which offers a deeply intimate and moving account of the tragedy and its aftermath. In her view, this book deserves a place in every middle school, high school, and college history class, as well as in libraries nationwide.
The injustices of the past must be addressed and understood to prevent them from recurring. Betsy was deeply moved by MORNINGSIDE and extends heartfelt gratitude to Aran Shetterly for documenting this important piece of history.
Visit Aran Shetterly’s website to learn more about his work, background, and previous publications.
We are providing the audio interview with Betsy Wurzel and Aran Shetterly: 📌 Click here to listen…
Contact Information:
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Aran Shetterly
Website: https://www.aranshetterly.com/
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Purchase on Amazon: Purchase Here
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