By Ayesha K. Mustafaa
Editor
Mayor Chokwe Lumumba put his backing for the 50th Anniversary of the Mississippi Freedom Summer when, according to the planners, “… in 1964, more than 1,000 volunteers from across America convened in Mississippi to put an end to the system of rigid segregation.”
In a statement issued by “The Movement Forward” organizors, the anniversary will be celebrated in Jackson June 25 – 29, 2014, to celebrate the “civil rights workers and summer volunteers who successfully challenged the denial by the state of Mississippi to keep black people from voting, getting a decent education and holding elected offices.”
While this 50th Anniversary will highlight the legacy of the Freedom Summer accomplishments, it will also serve as the platform to “continue to make life better for Jacksonians, Mississippians and all Americans,” said Lumumba at a press conference he called to announce his support.
“While the Freedom Summer of ’64 made profound changes in the state and the country, much remains to be accomplished. And your support will continue to make life better for Mississippians and all Americans.”
As follow up to the Dec. 10 press conference, the mayor sponsored a fundraiser reception for the 50th Freedom Summer anniversary events at the Mississippi Museum of Art Dec. 12.
The mayor said, “This is a remarkable occasion. As we remember the hero of many, Nelson Mandela, this is a reminder of the sacrifices of our own home grown freedom fighters.
“This will be a world renowned showcasing of your contribution to move the world forward. This is a legacy, a living treasure – not a buried one. I’m hearing interest from all over the country for this.”
Hollis Watkins, national chairman for the occasion, said, “We are the Sankofa bird, with our feet firmly planted forward and grounded, as we look back to see where we must go from here.
“The Freedom Summer brought about tremendous change that not only impacted the U.S. but also the world. I was in South Africa and they were talking about this event.
“Don’t come by yourself,” said Watkins. “Tell one to tell one to tell one…. We want the veterans, the young ones, the scholars to hear from people who were there. Our mayor is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with us.”
For more information, visit the website www.MSFreedomSummer50th.com
