Eyes on Freedom

This audio documentary of the lives and legacy of Deerfield’s beloved peace and civil rights activists, Wally and Juanita Nelson was produced by folklorists Carrie and Michael Nobel Kline along with production assistant Nicholas Boyer. The hour-long production, which the producers are calling an “audio tapestry,” weaves together voices of people who knew the Nelsons and who were influenced by them. It also includes vintage audio recordings of the Nelsons themselves.

Wally and Juanita Nelson were civil rights activists, peace activists, war tax refusers, subsistence farmers, and advocates of simple living. They were members of such groups as CORE (Congress on Racial Equality), FOR (Fellowship of Reconciliation), and Peacemakers. In western Massachusetts, they were founding members of the Greenfield Farmers’ Market, the Free Harvest Supper, the Valley Community Land Trust, and Winter Fare. They were recipients of numerous awards during their lifetimes, including the Courage of Conscience Award from the Peace Abbey in Sherborn, MA, the Sacco and Vanzetti Award from Community Church in Boston, and the Local Hero Award from CISA (Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture) for championing local food and agriculture.

The Montague Center Branch Library has one accessible parking space, located on the North Street side of the building (to the right side, if you’re facing the front of the building.) The Branch Library is accessible by a wheelchair ramp, also located on the North Street Side. There is an accessible restroom located in the children’s room. There is not an automatic door.

The Montague Public Libraries welcome individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact library director, Caitlin Kelley, at librarydirector@montague-ma.gov or 413-863-3214 ext. 6 in advance of your participation or visit.

Alt text: Juanita and Wally Nelson laughing.