What a powerful and dynamic play! I was taken back by the music, the story, and the artistry. I never had heard of Bayard Rustin. Living in Chester County, his approach to a nonviolent approach to racial divide has been heard through figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. To know that we have our own hero this close to home and his story was a magical ride and I was just glad to be a part of seeing it unfold at People’s Light.
Who is Bayard Rustin?
Bayard a Chester County native was a “Troublemaker.” A Troublemaker who didn’t just accept social norms as the way of life. As a Black queer he had a long road ahead of him. He received notice that he needed to sign up the Draft in 1944. He refused. Bayard wasn’t interested in war because war wasn’t the way he wanted to solve conflict. So, his ability to make that clear cut stand landed him in jail in Ashland for a 3-year sentence. How would life be for a Black queer man in prison? What revolution would he be able to start while there? Thus, the story of Bayard Rustin is a story of standing firm in your beliefs no matter what. Just like with any story of defiance, it comes with its own challenges.
Homosexuality A Crime
In the 1940s you couldn’t be openly homosexual. That was a crime and a disease. This very open Black man had a mark on him. He was separated in his jail for being Black and Gay. I wonder what Bayard would think now. Seeing Black Men and Women being able to express themselves so freely. In the 1940s Bayard didn’t have those accommodations. Although he was open about it, and it was a challenge for him in prison. Once in prison he was accused of having relationships with several men there. They wanted to use that to get him moved from Ashland.
Nonviolence and Bayard Rustin
Bayard was clear that using violence to declare that the use of violence wasn’t the way. FYI, it was Bayard who taught this to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and later become his advisor. However, while in Ashland prison, that thought process wasn’t welcomed. Think about it. Southern White men incarcerated with Bayard and other Black men learning unlearned patterns of racism-unheard of. Bayard had a vision of Black and White men learning how to coexist. He was able to form a choir that included Black and White men together. If they could sing together, they could live in the same cell. Coupled with protests and hunger strikes, he was challenged every step of the way.
Bayard’s Personality
I loved how People’s Light really took you into Bayard’s personality. Bayard Rustin was well spoken, had a sassy attitude, and had a clear vision. I loved all of it. One of the things that I am most saddened by was never learning about him in school. I don’t remember textbooks referencing him. However, his story is being told now. His light was bright. Bayard was an extraordinary man. I loved the music. From the musicians to the singers, it blew me off of my seat.
As a Choir director’s daughter, the music was hands down on of the other important parts of play. His relationship with his mother was powerful. Bayard Rustin’s mom was raised as his sister and not his biological mom. She didn’t want him, and he felt all of that as he progressed. So many people like him are unloved just because he was different. So many in the LGBTQ+ community feel this every day. The ability to still show up and honor others in his work-a true testament of strength unbridled.
What to Expect while Seeing Bayard Rustin Inside Ashland
Come prepared to sing, dance, clap, and respond. If you have ever been at a Black church and hear the call of response-these are the vibes. Many Black people’s roots are heavy in the church. Bayard Rustin is a product of his upbringing which is a gift and a curse.
It’s never how you start but where you end up. Bayard has been about many movements since his time in Ashland. He died on August 24, 1987. His story is a beautiful unraveling of taking what someone calls you, Troublemaker and stirring the pot in the name of right. Thank you, Bayard Rustin!! This well suited for ages 13 and up. There is brief nudity so plan accordingly if you plan to bring your teenager.
Get your tickets for Bayard Rustin Inside Ashland as its in production until June 12th at People’s Light. Bayard Rustin Inside Ashland was written and directed by Steve H. Broadnax III and arranged and composed by Jason Michael Webb.
A special thank you to People’s Light as well as Carrie Gorn of Perpetual Motion PR for having me!
One thought on “Bayard Rustin Inside Ashland”
Comments are closed.