Rudy Rush, a comedian and former host of Showtime at the Apollo, shares a humorous take on unexpected adventures and his love for rodeo culture. Bob Zellner, a civil rights activist and author, recounts his transformative journey from a Klan family to an ally during the Civil Rights Movement, highlighting impactful encounters with iconic leaders. Meanwhile, Cynthia Riggs reflects on a heartwarming love story that reconnected her with a long-lost friend after 62 years, exploring themes of nostalgia, community, and the power of personal connections.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Harlem Comedian Joins Rodeo
Rudy Rush, a Harlem comedian, unexpectedly embraced rodeo culture after visiting Pendleton, Oregon.
His experience changed his perspective and forged lasting friendships in a predominantly white community.
insights INSIGHT
Black Cowboys' Forgotten Legacy
Black cowboys made up roughly one-fourth of the Wranglers in the Old West.
Hollywood narratives often overlook these critical African-American contributors to cowboy history.
question_answer ANECDOTE
White Southerner Joins Civil Rights
Bob Zellner, a white southerner from a Klan family, became a civil rights activist and SNCC field secretary.
He escorted Marlon Brando in Mississippi during dangerous civil rights protests in 1964.
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In "The Wrong Side of Murder," Bob Zellner shares his personal journey from a background rooted in the South's deeply ingrained segregation to becoming a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement. The book offers a firsthand account of the struggles, risks, and triumphs of the movement, highlighting Zellner's unique perspective as a white southerner working alongside Black activists. Zellner's narrative provides a powerful testament to the courage and determination of those who fought for racial equality, shedding light on the often-overlooked contributions of white allies. His story underscores the enduring legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and its ongoing relevance in contemporary society. The book serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and equality.
Howard and Cynthia: A Love Story
Cynthia Riggs
Howard Attebery
This heartfelt memoir chronicles the remarkable love story of Cynthia Riggs and Howard Attebery, who reconnected after 62 years apart and married in their 80s and 90s. The book details their initial meeting in 1950 at Scripps Institution, their decades-long separation, and their passionate reunion through letters and visits that led to multiple wedding ceremonies on Martha's Vineyard in 2013. Their correspondence, including coded messages on paper towels and romantic lyrics, forms the emotional core of this inspiring late-life romance.
Mississippi Burning
Kirk Mitchell
Set in Mississippi in 1964, the novel follows two FBI agents as they investigate the disappearance of three civil rights workers. The agents face challenges in a town where racial tensions are high and local authorities are uncooperative. The story explores themes of justice, hate, and the struggle for civil rights in a deeply divided society.
This week The Moth Radio Hour is proud to present to you stories full of pleasant surprises. From unexpected friends, to the Civil Rights Movement, and a love story over 60 years in the making. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Curatorial Producer, Suzanne Rust. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.
Storytellers:
Rudy Rush, a comedian from Harlem, cannot buck his love for the rodeo.
White southerner Bob Zellner reflects on being an ally during the Civil Rights Movement.
After 62 years apart, Cynthia Riggs reconnects with a man from her past.
The Moth 
