Event Details
Participants will learn about the history of Durham and its importance in Murray’s legacy. At each stop, participants will receive selected prayers, meditations, and conversation starters to encourage reflection and fellowship.
The full pilgrimage route is 4.5 miles, but it's up to you how long you walk.
Starting at the Pauli Murray Center, located at 906 Carroll Street. Then, make your way along the American Tobacco Trail to the Veranda at Whitted (Historic Hillside high school), St. Titus' Episcopal Church, and Stanford L. Warren Library.
You can begin the journey anytime between 10:30 and 11:30 AM, but we ask that you do not begin the pilgrimage after 11:30 AM.
You can walk the entire route or use our modified 1-mile option. There will be a shuttle service along the route for walkers who want to return to the Pauli Murray Center at any point.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is this Event?
This event combines community building, history, and spirituality. We’re using "Pilgrimage" to describe a spiritual journey leading to places with particular significance and connections to the Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray. Participants can walk this self-guided route between sites of importance to the Rev. Dr. Murray. At each stop, you will get a unique stamp in your pilgrimage passbook, information about the history of the location, and reflection prompts.
Do I need to be a Christian or Episcopalian to join?
Everyone is welcome on the Pauli Murray Pilgrimage; you don’t need to be Episcopalian, Christian, or religious! At each stop, you can choose from prayers, meditations, and conversation starters, whichever activity feels best for you.
How well should I know Pauli Murray to join?
You can learn more about Pauli Murray by visiting this page about Pauli Murray’s life, watching the documentary My Name Is Pauli Murray on Amazon Prime, reading their memoir Proud Shoes or their autobiography Song in a Weary Throat. If you are unfamiliar with the Rev. Dr. Murray, we recommend familiarizing yourself with their history beforehand in order to get the most out of the pilgrimage.
Where will we be going?
The Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice (the home where the Rev. Dr. Murray grew up) at 906 Carroll Street
Veranda at Whitted at 200 E Umstead Rd (Pauli Murray's high school)
St. Titus Episcopal Church at 400 Moline Street
Stanford L. Warren Library at 1208 Fayetteville Stree
Does the pilgrimage cost money?
Registration is entirely free, but we recommend donations to support the Pauli Murray Center and help us offset the costs of the program. Please give as you are able.
What time does it start and when should it end? How long does it take?
Begin the pilgrimage anytime between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM. All the stops will close at 2 PM. At an average walking speed, the route is one and a half hours, but participants are encouraged to rest, walk slowly, and take their time. We recommend budgeting at least 2 hours to complete the entire journey.
Where can I park?
Park at Morehead Avenue Baptist Church, a gravel lot on Carroll Street, and on street parking in the neighborhood. If you'd like to participate in the shortened 1 mile route, please begin at the Pauli Murray Center and then proceed to Hillside park in your vehicle.
What should I bring?
We recommend that you bring a water bottle and wear sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and walking shoes. Cups for water and water stations will be provided at each stop of the pilgrimage.
Can I walk in a group? Is it okay to walk alone?
You are welcome to attend the pilgrimage as an individual or with a group! We ask that you register individually so that we can get a sense of how many people will be attending. If you want to begin the journey with other participants, arrive at the Pauli Murray Center at 10:30, 11, or 11:30 AM.
Can I drive through the pilgrimage? How accessible is the route?
You are welcome to drive from stop to stop, but you may not be able to drive along the exact route that participants are walking. Addresses for each stop will be provided to you at check in at the Pauli Murray Center.
Is this kid-friendly and pet-friendly?
Yes! All are welcome to attend and participate, but please be aware that pets are not permitted in the shuttle. Service animals are always welcome.
Are restrooms available during the program?
There will be a port-a-potty available at the Pauli Murray Center, public restrooms at Hillside Park, and restrooms indoors on the third stop at St. Titus Episcopal Church.
What if it rains?
This event will continue, rain or shine. Please bring an umbrella or rain clothes if the forecast suggests rain.
Can I help out with the event?
We would love to have your help! If you are interested in volunteering during the pilgrimage, please send an email to Karita Cardona (they/them) at execadmin@paulimurraycenter.org.
Who should I contact with any questions?
Reach out to Kristin Hauser (she/her) at communications@paulimurraycenter.org with any questions!