On Wednesday, June 28, we had the privilege of attending the City of Greensboro Celebration, celebrating human rights, and recognizing the recipients of the 2023 Morningside & Mosaic Awards. Reverend Nelson Johnson, BCC’s Co-Executive Director, delivered a moving speech honoring the scholarship recipients and paying tribute to the victims of the 1979 Greensboro Massacre.


The 1979 Greensboro Massacre holds a central place in the work of the Greensboro Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission. After years of dedicated effort, the commission released its final report in late May 2006. Thanks to the commission’s work and the advocacy of the BCC, the Greensboro City Council passed a resolution in October 2020, formally apologizing for their role in the tragic event.

In commemoration of the lives lost in the Greensboro Massacre, the City of Greensboro established the Morningside Awards. These awards honor the memory of the victims by granting scholarships of $1,979 to five deserving seniors at James B. Dudley High School. To participate in the selection process, students are required to submit essays or recordings focusing on issues of racial and social justice.

2023 Morningside Award Recipients:
Nylen Brewington-Al-Ahamar, Makaya Garner, Leotis McNeil III, Jordan Miller, Anthony Taylor.

Photos: Lewis A. Brandon III, Historian