A community screening and discussion of the acclaimed documentary “Two Towns of Jasper” is set for Saturday, April 11, on the campus of Central Methodist University.

The free public event, co-sponsored by Fayette Together, begins at 11:30 a.m. on the fourth floor of CMU’s Inman Student and Community Center. Heavy refreshments will be served.

The 2002 film examines the aftermath of the 1998 murder of James Byrd Jr., a Black man who was chained to a pickup truck and dragged to his death by three white men in Jasper, Texas. The crime widely regarded as one of the most brutal hate crimes in modern U.S. history.

Directed by Marco Williams and Whitney Dow, the documentary employed an innovative structure: separate Black and white film crews captured parallel perspectives from residents during the trials of the perpetrators. The result is a stark portrait of racial divisions, prompting viewers to reflect on how race influences perceptions of events, history, and daily life in America.

“We believe this film can serve as a meaningful catalyst for dialogue in our own community,” said Lue Lockridge-Lane, a Fayette Together board member and 2024 recipient of the Lea Tindall Memorial Award from CMU’s African American Student Union. “Though the events took place more than 25 years ago, issues of racial injustice, division, and systemic bias remain very present today.

“This is an opportunity for us, as a community, to watch together, reflect together, and talk openly about hard but necessary topics. The goal is not blame or shame—it is learning, listening, and growing toward greater understanding and compassion.”

The event is also sponsored by CMU’s Center for Faith and Service, St. Paul United Methodist Church, and Linn Memorial United Methodist Church. Organizers aim to foster honest conversations about race, justice, and violence in American society. Attendees are encouraged to build empathy by engaging with diverse viewpoints, identifying shared values, and exploring steps toward a more inclusive and equitable community.

The screening and discussion are open to the public with no admission charge. For questions or to RSVP, contact Lockridge-Lane at luelockridgelane@yahoo.com.