Mississippi NAACP honors civil rights icon Medgar Evers

JANS – Mississippians and visitors from all walks of life, including a student delegation from Medgar Evers College in New York City, came together June 29-July 2, 2025, to continue the celebration of the life, work, and enduring legacy of Medgar Wiley Evers on what would have been his 100th birthday. The Mississippi State Conference NAACP hosted these events in partnership with the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Institute and One Voice.

Through a series of community-centered events in Jackson – beginning with a Centennial Church Service, followed by an engaging community conversation, and culminating in a daylong birthday celebration filled with reflection, dialogue, and local performances – Mississippi remembered Evers’ sacrifices, uplifted his vision, and renewed a shared commitment to the justice he championed.

The commemoration opened Sunday, June 29, with a Centennial Church Service at Shady Grove Baptist Church. Family, friends, and neighbors came together in worship and thanksgiving for the faith and courage that guided Medgar Evers’ lifelong fight for freedom and equality.

On Monday, June 30, the community gathered at Lanier High School – itself celebrating its 100th anniversary this year – for A Community Conversation: “Medgar Evers, Mississippi, and the Movement: The Written Word.” This evening of storytelling and open dialogue brought together voices from across Mississippi to share memories, reflect on Medgar Evers’ impact, and envision the future inspired by his legacy. The panel discussion featured authors Dr. Nikole Hannah Jones, MacArthur Cotton, Charles McLaurin, Hezekiah Watkins, Dave Dennis Sr., and Omo Moses, the son of veteran civil rights leader Bob Moses. 

The celebration culminated on Wednesday, July 2 – what would have been Medgar Evers’ 100th birthday – with The Community’s Celebration of Medgar Evers at The Two Mississippi Museums. This special day of community reflection and celebration included: 

• Morning Panel Discussion: “Medgar Evers, Mississippi, and the Movement: 100 Years Ago” – exploring the early work of the Mississippi NAACP and Evers’ pivotal role in advancing civil rights. The panel discussion featured Dr. Christine Thomas, Dr. Daphne Chamberlain, Clarence Magee, and Dr. Ivory Phillips. 

• Fireside Chat with President and CEO of NAACP Derrick Johnson: A deep dive into how Medgar Evers’ leadership shaped the mission and growth of the NAACP in Mississippi and beyond.

• Afternoon Panel Discussion: “Medgar Evers, Mississippi, and the Movement: 100 Years Ahead” – a forward-looking conversation about how his vision for justice continues to guide advocacy and inspire new generations. The panel discussion featured Nsombi Lambright Haynes, Dr. Sandra Melvin, Charles Taylor, and Kiyadh Burt.

• Community Birthday Celebration & Party: A vibrant celebration featuring live performances by the Nate Edwards Band and MADDRAMA created a joyful space for families, friends, and neighbors to honor Medgar Evers’ life through music, stories, and community fellowship.

During July 2nd’s 100th birthday celebration at the Two Mississippi Museums, The National Parks Service conducted tours of the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument, also known as Medgar Evers House, a historic house museum at 2332 Margaret Walker Alexander Drive in Jackson, Mississippi. Built in 1956, it was the home of Evers at the time of his assassination.

All events were free and open to the public. Together, these gatherings honored not just a civil rights hero but the living legacy that continues to inspire Mississippians to stand for equality and freedom.