UPDATE: Due to inclement weather, the venue for Freedom Fest has been moved to the Masonic Temple, 1072 John R. Lynch St. in Jackson.
In 1964, students, community members and civil rights organizations across the state of Mississippi mobilized for one of the largest voter registration drives to register African Americans. Fifty years later, again, students, community members and civil rights organizations have collaborated to celebrate what occurred and carry out the same efforts of grassroots organizing.
As a sector of the Freedom Youth Congress, the Fannie Lou Hamer Institute @ COFO and the Mississippi Student Justice Alliance are collaborating to host Freedom Fest, a community rally, as a means for youth/community members to creatively express their understanding and passion for civil rights, human dignity and the right to organize.
The event will take place at Jackson State University from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. June 26 at the Masonic Temple, 1072 John R. Lynch St. in Jackson. Admission is free. Donations are encouraged upon entry.
This event will allow Jackson State University an opportunity to engage the local community as well as recruit additional students. More than 600 young people are expected to attend this event.
For more information, call the Fannie Lou Hamer Institute @ COFO at 601-979-1563.