I was a student at Jackson State University in 1963. I was one of many who marched on Capital Streed during th boycots.
I was a demonstrator after the ambush of Medgar Evers. We marched with flags and signs. The cops followed us, snatching flags and signs out of our hands. We were stopped by cops and placed in jam-packed paddy wagons. We continued to sing and rock the van. The driver put the heat on us and we had to stop all actions in order to reserve oxygen in the hot van.
We were jailed at the Fairground in stockades. These stockades were used to house animals during the fair season. We spent the night there and were fed pork-n-beans and white bread. We were released the next day.
Some of us met at the "Smack Over" (a college hangout) to discuss the success of the march. the march was very successful. It appeared that every young person in the city was there.
I am proud to have participated in the Movement to fight injustice in Mississippi. There are many of us foot soldiers out here who have never had a voice.
I went to Greenville, Mississippi and helped with voter registration after leaving Jackson. I taught school in Greenville. I also taught school in Dayton, Ohio. I am retired after 35 years of teaching. I have one son and daughter-in-law and two grand daughters, ages 6 and 10. I am now in a small real estate business.
I an proud of all the people who participated in such a powerful Movement for freedom.
A lot has been accomplished. Someone paid the cost. We have come a mighty long way in the fight for justice and freedom for all. Are we there yet??
Copyright © Doris M. Bailey, 2006
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