Vernon Johns Story - The Road to Freedom

Oscar nominee James Earl Jones stars as controversial pastor Vernon Johns, one of the earliest voices of the civil rights movement. In 1948, Johns served as the outspoken spiritual leader of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Incensed at the racial injustice that pervaded the South, he was determined to fight for equality for all African-Americans.

His refusal to accept segregation incited anger amongst local law enforcement and caused his family to fear for their lives. Johns held strong to his beliefs and encouraged his congregation to join him. But the church council deemed him a troublemaker, and he was voted out as pastor...only to be replaced by future civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr.