Narrated by Whoopi Goldberg. This film examines a little-known aspect of American history: newly freed slaves throughout the South forming 'benevolent societies' to respond to abject hunger, illness and the fear of a pauper's grave. 'The Fair Hope Benevolent Society' in Uniontown, Alabama, provides an unprecedented look at the complex and morally ambiguous juxtaposition of the Society with the worldly pleasures of what has become known as the annual 'Foot Wash' celebration.