College Tours

Annual 500 Miles of Freedom College & Civil Rights Tour

The Omega Lamplighters, Inc. annual 500 Miles of Freedom College & Civil Rights Tour made a grand return in 2022 after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The tour, which had previously been paused, resumed with a powerful educational journey through several cities, including Montgomery, AL; Louisville, KY; Chicago, IL; Indianapolis, IN; Nashville, TN; and Huntsville, AL. The tour aims to expose male youth to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), cultural landmarks, civil rights museums, and key historical sites, as well as provide moments of fun and enjoyment after the school year.

This year, the tour has doubled in size, reflecting the growing interest and impact of the experience. The 2023 itinerary includes stops in Birmingham, AL; Memphis, TN; Little Rock, AR; Tulsa, OK; Dallas, TX; Shreveport, LA; and Jackson, MS. In addition to visiting HBCUs and cultural institutions, the tour also features recreational activities to balance learning with fun, offering youth the chance to relax and bond with their peers.

The overall goal of the trip is to educate the participants, provide them with the opportunity to experience living history firsthand, and give them lasting memories that will inspire and enrich their lives. This initiative is a meaningful way to help young people connect with their heritage and better understand the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement.