2026 Freedom Tour In Partnership with the Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis

Freedom Tour 2026: A Journey Through History, Courage, and Purpose

July 6-12, 2026

History is often taught through textbooks, but this summer, Fort Bend County and Harris County students experienced it by walking the very streets where history was made.

In partnership with the Office of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, the Expose Excellence Youth Program's annual Freedom Tour took students across Alabama, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi for a week-long educational journey through the American Civil Rights Movement. From marching on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma to reflecting at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, students encountered history in a way that challenged perspectives, inspired meaningful conversations, and encouraged civic responsibility.

Before departing Richmond, students and their families were welcomed by Commissioner Rodney Ellis, whose partnership helped make the trip possible, and District Attorney Brian Middleton. Commissioner Ellis encouraged students to embrace the experience ahead, reminding them of the importance of understanding history and carrying its lessons into the future. He also welcomed the group home upon their return, celebrating the knowledge and experiences they brought back to their communities.

Throughout the week, participants visited some of the nation's most significant civil rights landmarks, including Brown Chapel AME Church, the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, Kelly Ingram Park, the 16th Street Baptist Church, the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, Clayborn Temple, the Louisiana Civil Rights Museum, and the William Frantz Elementary School, where Ruby Bridges courageously integrated New Orleans public schools at just six years old.

Along the way, students had the opportunity to engage with elected officials and public servants whose work continues to shape their communities today. In Selma, Commissioner Dexter McCoy joined the group and shared words of encouragement as students explored one of the most pivotal locations of the Voting Rights Movement. The City of Selma also recognized Expose Excellence Youth Program with an official proclamation, presented by Mayor Johnny Moss, honoring the organization's commitment to educating and empowering young people through civic engagement and historical education.

In Birmingham, District Attorney Danny Carr welcomed students and spoke about following their dreams and proving naysayers wrong. His conversation gave students inspiration regarding their education and career goals.

Rather than simply learning about history, students engaged directly with museum educators, historians, community leaders, elected officials, and one another through daily discussions that encouraged reflection and personal growth.

The impact of the experience was evident in their own words.

"This trip has really opened my understanding of all the different sacrifices that were made. I now appreciate my culture very much and all my ancestors that sacrificed themselves."
- Ja'Varius B

"This trip and the experiences I had with EEYP were truly eye-opening. I not only learned about what African Americans had to endure in the past, but also what we have to do as a nation and people to continue the dream and progress that previous advocates fought for."
- Caleb L

For many students, the tour connected historical events to present-day responsibility.

"My experience on this trip with EEYP truly made me grasp why it is up to me and my generation to keep the fight going... It revealed to me all the victories that they don't teach us about in school. With everything that I have learned, seen, and heard, it is up to my generation to make sure these stories don't die and that the pioneers' sacrifices were not in vain."
- Kyah M

Others reflected on the importance of preserving history and understanding its lasting impact.

"This trip really opened my eyes to the experiences of the Black community after slavery. Many people believe racism ended with slavery, but this trip proved that Black people had to endure so much more for hundreds of years after."
- Chidimma O

Students also spoke about the relationships they built throughout the week.

"I am really thankful for the people I've met on this trip. They gave me a different perspective on things, and I'm thankful for the staff because y'all have widened my understanding and have given deep conversations that were good."
- Christopher E

For others, the experience became deeply personal.

"On the Freedom Tour for my first time... I get to walk in the footsteps of my ancestors and learn from people who lived through hardships that make up our lives today. I'm grateful that I was chosen for an amazing opportunity and wish to dive deeper into our history so we can learn from our past and move on to a better way of life."
- Brashard J

The week also inspired students to become lifelong learners and community leaders.

"My experience here was amazing... I want to keep learning and taking action to help my community."
- Joddie A

One student summarized the emotional weight of the journey with a single word.

"My experience on the Freedom Tour was ineffable. The sights I saw, the people I met, the history I can never unlearn, the truth that has been revealed, and everything my soul has experienced will never be forgotten."
- Violet L

These reflections reinforced the purpose of the Freedom Tour: not only to teach history, but to cultivate empathy, leadership, and civic engagement. By connecting young people to the stories of those who fought for justice, students returned home better equipped to recognize the importance of voting, serving their communities, standing against injustice, and continuing the work of building a more equitable future.

The Expose Excellence Youth Program extends its sincere gratitude to the Office of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis for partnering with us to make this year's Freedom Tour possible. We also thank Commissioner Dexter McCoy, District Attorney Danny Carr, Mayor Johnny Moss, our museum partners, educators, law enforcement officers, volunteers, chaperones, and the families who entrusted us with their students. Their support, encouragement, and commitment to educating the next generation made this life-changing experience possible.

The Freedom Tour is more than a trip. It is an investment in the next generation of informed, compassionate, and courageous leaders. As our students returned home, they carried more than souvenirs. They carried stories, perspectives, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that the sacrifices of those who came before them are never forgotten.