The Mississippi Link Newswire
Recently, Tougaloo College reaffirmed its historic commitment to the quest for justice and equality.
In two upcoming events, the college intends to bring attention to the positives that have come out of historic ruins and to reaffirm the need to break down barriers and help build a better Mississippi, nation and world.
The two events are a symposium from 1-3 p.m. May 20, at the Old Capitol Museum, 100 S. State St., in Jackson, and the annual Two Rivers Gala at 7 p.m. May 21, at the Jackson Convention Complex.
The symposium titled “Where Do We Go from Here?” will serve as a precursor to the opening of the new Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. Former Gov. William F. Winter will serve as moderator and will lead a panel of experts in the examination of two topics – progress made since the Civil Rights Movement and critical issues that currently confront progress. The panel of experts will include Daphne Chamberlain, chair of the Department of History at Tougaloo College; Marty Wiseman, professor emeritus of political science and former executive director of the Stennis Institute at Mississippi State University; Derrick Johnson, president of the Mississippi State Conference of NAACP; and James Barksdale, chairman and president of the Barksdale Management Corporation.
Tougaloo has hosted the Two Rivers Gala/Tougaloo Honors since 2010. The event has provided a forum for the college to honor individuals who have made significant, even extraordinary, contributions to society.
The 2016 theme “Saluting Mississippi Icons” will honor Mississippians in the areas of education, social activism, entrepreneur, creative genius, journalism and sports.
This year’s honorees include Clarence Weatherspoon, Myrlie Evers-Williams, Roderick “Rod” Paige, James Barksdale, Benjamin E. Wright and Aunjanue Ellis.
The honorees personify courage, conviction and commitment to excellence and service. Their accomplishments have triggered transcending impacts on the unique contribution of Mississippians to the state and nation.
Jeffrey Osborne is the musical guest for the black-tie affair.
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