The annual Robert C. Palmer Lecture on Human Rights was established by the church’s Board of Directors in 1983 to honor the legacy and service of the Rev. Robert Palmer, our first called minister. Rev. Palmer was a social activist on many fronts, including the United Nations, nuclear disarmament, and the Civil Rights Movement.
Our 2025 Guest Speaker will be Representative Justin Jones.
Justin Jones is an educator, organizer, legislator, minister, environmentalist, and gun violence prevention advocate deeply committed to doing the justice work required to move Tennessee and our nation forward. Justin was elected in 2022 to represent the people of District 52, a culmination of years of advocacy work around Medicaid expansion, racial justice, police accountability, and environmental protection. He is deeply embedded in a tradition of resistance that comes from his familial and movement ancestors who ground and guide his work. Justin was expelled from the Tennessee legislature, putting purpose above title as he protested for laws that protect kids, not guns following a school shooting in his community. He was reinstated three days later and is currently serving in his second term as the youngest Black lawmaker in Tennessee. Justin is a relentless fighter for our collective freedom and an apologetic voice for a South that will RISE ANEW.
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