TUPELO– Justice and equality for all does not always come easy. Non-violent marches and demonstrations that engaged deeply committed men, women, and children were essential to the success of the 1960s Civil Rights movement across America. During Black History Month in February, in remembrance of that struggle for justice and equality, the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center will host an informative photo display and the documentary film Never Lose Sight of Freedom.
This film showcases both tragic and inspirational events that occurred during the 1965 demonstration march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. Thousands of people walked 54 miles over four days to stand at the Alabama state capitol building and petition the governor for their right to vote. The Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail and the bridge where this march was temporarily stopped with violence – the Edmund Pettus Bridge National Historic Landmark, are both now units of the National Park Service. Both sites serve to remind visitors of the determination and sacrifices made for justice.
The subject of the Black History Month’s photo display is located at national park units that commemorate the struggles and accomplishments of African-Americans. These national park sites are all within a day’s drive of Tupelo, Mississippi.
Media Release/Office of the Superintendent, Natchez Trace Parkway
