It was a beautiful winter morning last Saturday when the sounds of marching bands and sirens mixed with the sound of an excited crowd on Washington Ave.
A little after 11 a.m. the customary police and fire vehicles lead the way for marching bands, floats, community groups bearing messages from King’s many speeches, and this year’s Grand Marshall, Coach Willie Lump Lewis.
The theme of the parade this year was Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence.
This year saw the addition of a Freedom Riders float in the parade.
In 1961, the Freedom Riders came to the Mississippi Delta to challenge segregation and fight for equal rights. They were a group of Black and white activists who rode buses into the South to make sure laws banning segregation in travel were being followed.
Their actions caught the nation’s attention and inspired more people to join the fight for civil rights.
Along with the floats, marching bands, and the message, no Greenville parade would be complete without the hot rods, supercars, and horseback riders.
After the parade, the crowd broke up and went back to their Saturday afternoon activities.
On Monday, King’s Birthday was observed by the 100 Black Men of the Mississippi Delta who held their Martin Luther King Day program at the House of Prayer C.O.G.I.C. on Alexander Street in Greenville.
Before introducing this year's speaker, Senator Derrick Simmons, Mayor Errick Simmons Thanked the 100 Black Men of the Mississippi Delta for a Successful King Day Program
as well as their President, Marvin Elder for his and the 100’s continued commitment to community service, youth development, and promoting justice for all.
“Their dedication shines through initiatives such as the Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade and Program,” Mayor Simmons said. “Which honors Dr. King’s legacy of equality and service.”
Senator Simmons, who was joined by his wife, mother, and children said It was an honor to be extended the opportunity to address other advocates for justice on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
In his speech, the senator quoted Dr. King when he said Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
“These words remind us that the fight for justice, freedom, and democracy is not confined to one community, one nation, or one era. It is a universal and timeless struggle,” Senator Simmons said. “Despite the many disguises of injustice, the impact is the same: it divides us, diminishes our humanity, and erodes the foundations of democracy. Today, as we honor Dr. King, let us not merely admire his dream but work to fulfill it.”
After the event, Mayor Simmons commended the organization for providing impactful mentorship, fostering leadership in youth, and bringing the community together to reflect on the values of justice, unity, and progress.
“I look forward to their continued service,” Mayor Simmons said. “In building a brighter, more inclusive future for the Mississippi Delta.”
Alese McDaniel, an Indianola resident and a member of the 100 Black Men, said the event was well attended and meaningful.
“We had people from throughout the community to attend,” McDaniel said. “The O’Bannon High School Choir provided uplifting music that truly brought joy to everyone.”
McDaniel said honoring Willie Lump Lewis with the Outstanding Community Service Award was a recognition of his long-standing commitment to Greenville’s youth.
“Mr. Lewis has been working with young people in the community for a number of years,” McDaniels said. “His efforts to provide positive opportunities for our youth are very beneficial to the community.”
Looking ahead, McDaniel said the organization’s next major event will be their annual scholarship program on June 19 at the Washington County Convention Center.
“We award scholarships to students from various high schools throughout the Delta, and last year we gave out 13 scholarships,” McDaniel said. “We are looking forward to continuing our support for local students.”
For more on Coach Lewis, see Patrick Ervin’s story in the sports section.
