Reverend James J. Reeb

Reverend James J. Reeb, was a  38-year-old, husband and father to four young children, a Civil Rights ally,  a Unitarian Universalist minister, and a social worker. Rev. Reeb lived his Christian values. When MLK, Jr. called for supporters to come to Selma, AL to participate in marches across Selma, Rev. Reeb responded affirmatively.

On March 11, 1965, Rev. Reeb was cornered and severely beaten by a white mob and died two days later from his massive head injuries. Three men charged with beating Rev. Reeb were all acquitted by an all-white jury. Rev. Reeb lived his short life in selfless service to others. A monument marking and celebrating his life reads, “This Good Man.” Indeed, he was a very good man.

Rev. Reeb was an exceptional person whose life must never be lost to history. Let us always remember his service, his goodness, his sacrifice, and the indelible mark he left behind. May his lessons for humanity inspire us to see beyond our differences and work together to turn our shared democratic ideals into a reality.