Our Mission

is to equip participants with the tools to build understanding and to promote cohesiveness for a strong, united communities of peace.

Honoring Perspectives, Inspiring Healing,

and

Building Unity

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About Us

The White Feather Historical and Educational Project (WFHEP) focuses on ethics and civic engagement in communities, emphasizing the shared values, responsibilities, and actions that guide how people participate in public life in ways that promote fairness, trust, and the common good. These objectives encourage cooperation and cohesiveness across communities.

WFHEP works to raise awareness of the lasting effects of historical injustices in Charlottesville and beyond. From the tragic loss of Heather Heyer during the Alt-Right march to the displacement of Black communities such as Vinegar Hill, Pearl Street, and Gospel Hill, the project examines the past and its connection to present challenges.

Through education, historical insight, and community dialogue, WFHEP helps individuals and organizations reflect on these experiences and work toward healing, understanding, and a more equitable future.

Supported by the BAMA Works Grant, the White Feather Project also developed programs that strengthen civic engagement and community leadership. These efforts provide organizations, nonprofits, and community members with tools that encourage collaboration, ethical participation in civic life, and constructive community partnerships.

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Group of elderly people in a discussion sitting on couches with papers in hand, indoor setting, bulletin board with drawings in the background.

White Feather Historical and Educational Project Goals

✅ Raise Awareness of Diverse Strengths and Needs

  • Empower people to define their own strengths and needs, fostering greater understanding and appreciation within the community.

✅ Create Safe Spaces for Reflection and Dialogue

  • Provide an environment where individuals can self-reflect and engage in meaningful conversations that challenge hierarchical notions of "might makes right."

✅ Encourage Authentic Expression

  • Support thoughtful discussions that honor differing perspectives and discourage the homogenization of speech, ideals, and viewpoints.

✅ Facilitate Healing Through Participation

  • Offer events and activities that help individuals embark on a journey of healing and growth.

✅ Redefine Community Narratives

  • Reimagine and articulate the African American community’s identity through the voices and experiences of African Americans themselves.

Humanity Circles

Diagram showing elements of caring behavior: awareness, kindness, support, empathy, communication, and reflection.

Taken from the Duluth MN Power and Control Concept of DV Intervention Project 1984

Meet the Team

Our team is dedicated to fostering education, healing, and community empowerment. Each member brings unique skills and passion to our mission, working together to create meaningful change. Get to know the people behind the White Feather Historical and Educational Project!

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Pastor Cass Bailey

MANAGER for the White Feather Historical and Educational Project

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Rev. Patricia Jones Turner

DIRECTOR and TRAINER for the White Feather Project Historical and Educational Project

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Dr. Evelyn Varner Whitehead

TRAINER for the White Feather Historical and Educational Project

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Mrs. Teresa Walker Price

HISTORIAN for the White Feather Historical and Educational Project

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Phillip A White

FACILITATOR of the White Feather Counsel of Men and Co-host of the White Feather Counsel of Men Podcast

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Judith Minter

TRAINER for the White Feather Historical and Educational Project

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Pam Perugi Marraccini 

TRAINER for the White Feather Historical and Educational Project

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White Feather Historical and Educational Projects Leadership Team

  • Hammond-Daughters of Zion

  • Delta Sigma Theta

  • Diocese of Virginia’s Diocesan Board of Homes, Trinity’s representative to the Diocese of Virginia’s Creation Care Team

  • Albemarle-Charlottesville NAACP

  • Burley Varsity Team

  • White Feather Project Administrator

Join the team

Be part of a movement dedicated to education, healing, and social change. Whether you bring skills in organizing, outreach, or advocacy, your passion can help make a difference. Get involved today!

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Group of people sitting at a table with red cups, having a discussion in a community center.