St. Mary’s City, Md. — A panel discussion titled “What Does Justice for All Look Like?” drew community members and students to Cole Cinema at St. Mary’s College of Maryland on April 9, 2025, for a candid conversation about the state and future of civil rights in America. The event, a follow-up to last fall’s panel marking the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, was hosted by the Center for the Study of Democracy, the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement (OCOE), Historic St. Mary’s City, Historic Sotterley, the St. Mary’s Branch of the NAACP (#7025), and the United Coalition for Afro-American Contributions (UCAC).
The forum provided a platform for reflection on justice, equity, and inclusion, particularly in the context of the new administration’s policies. Moderated by Molly McHugh ’25, an OCOE intern, the discussion featured three panelists: Brandon Russell, a member of the Maryland Commission on LGBTQ Affairs, board member of Pride Southern Maryland, and founder of Informed St. Mary’s; Rashida Ogletree-George, Esq., deputy chief of the Maryland Office of the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division; and Mia Bowers, president of the St. Mary’s County NAACP Branch (#7025) and executive director of Community Mediation of St. Mary’s.
Each panelist offered insights drawn from their advocacy, public service, and personal experiences. The discussion covered the evolving definition of civil rights, the influence of political leadership on marginalized communities, and the practical application of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice principles in institutions and daily life. Panelists addressed historical progress, current challenges, and potential pathways forward, emphasizing the need for continued community engagement.
A Q&A session followed, allowing attendees to raise local and national concerns, from issues specific to St. Mary’s County to broader policy trends. The dialogue highlighted the importance of civic participation in addressing systemic inequities, aligning with findings from the Pew Research Center, which notes that public engagement in civil rights discussions has grown amid shifting political landscapes.
The event built on the momentum of last fall’s panel, which explored the Civil Rights Act’s legacy in Southern Maryland. Organizers emphasized the role of such forums in fostering dialogue and action. The collaboration among sponsoring organizations underscored a shared commitment to advancing social justice, a priority echoed in national efforts to promote equity.
Attendees left with a call to stay involved in social justice initiatives. The OCOE encouraged those interested in future events or civic engagement opportunities to contact their office. The discussion served as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to achieve justice for all, both locally and nationwide.
