A year ago in New Market, Tennessee, flames engulfed the Highlander Center's main office building.
"It was emotional. It felt devastating in so many ways," co-executive director Ash-Lee Henderson said days after it happened.
Later, the Jefferson County sheriff confirmed a white power symbol, similar to one painted on the UT rock in previous years, was found on the property as well.
"It was scary and upsetting," Henderson added back then. But 365 days later the gravity of a one year anniversary takes on a new meaning.
"I think it means a lot of things. I think it means we survived a year," Henderson said through a FaceTime interview.
A year of continuing a legacy that dates back to 1932 and lasted through several social movements spanning generations.
"We probably touched 6,000 people just on site last year," Henderson said.