Montgomery to Host Historic 60th Anniversary Commemoration of Selma to Montgomery March

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The City of Montgomery is set to host a historic weekend of events from March 21-23, 2025, marking 60 years since the iconic Selma to Montgomery March, a pivotal moment in the U.S. civil rights movement that helped secure the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

The commemoration will feature a series of events celebrating the legacy of the march while addressing ongoing challenges to democracy. Montgomery’s first African American mayor, Steven L. Reed, will lead the city’s efforts, uniting national leaders, activists, and artists in a weekend of reflection, education, and mobilization.

A Tribute Through Music and Activism One of the highlights of the weekend will be the Stars for Freedom Rally on Saturday, March 22, at George Washington Carver High School. This event will bring together renowned artists, activists, and thought leaders to honor history and inspire action. Among the featured guests are hip-hop legend Big Boi and award-winning gospel artist Jekalyn Carr, who will use the power of music to commemorate the march’s impact and continue the call for justice.

Other notable figures attending the weekend’s events include actor Larenz Tate, television host Terrence J, pastor and activist Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant, gospel artist Pastor Mike Jr., award-winning producer and activist Gina Belafonte, American Idol alumnus Taylor Hicks, The Voice alumnus Ryley Tate Wilson, and actress KJ Smith. Additional special guests will be announced in the coming weeks.

Weekend Schedule of Events The three-day commemoration will feature a variety of events aimed at engaging communities and honoring the past:

• Friday, March 21 – “This Side of the Bridge” Reception (6:30 pm – 10:00 pm, Museum of Fine Arts) – A gathering recognizing past and present civil rights leaders.
• Saturday, March 22 – Community & Family Fun Day (10:00 am – 2:00 pm, Carver High School) – A family-friendly event with exhibits, youth activities, and cultural programming.
• Saturday, March 22 – Stars for Freedom Rally (2:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Carver High School) – A tribute event featuring performances and speeches by national artists and activists.
• Sunday, March 23 – This Side of the Bridge: March to the Capitol (1:00 pm, City of St. Jude to the Alabama State Capitol) – A reenactment of the final leg of the Selma to Montgomery March.

Bringing History to Life: A Metaverse Experience In an innovative step, Montgomery is introducing an immersive metaverse experience, allowing participants to engage with the historic march in a groundbreaking way. Developed in partnership with tech giant NVIDIA, this digital archive offers users the chance to explore key moments of the Civil Rights Trail and interact with AI-driven avatars of historical figures, ensuring an educational and dynamic representation of history. The experience is accessible to anyone with an internet connection and a web browser.

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future On March 25, 1965, thousands of marchers arrived in Montgomery after a 54-mile journey from Selma, demanding equal voting rights for Black Americans. Their courage and determination led to a historic demonstration at the Alabama State Capitol, culminating in the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965—one of the most consequential civil rights laws in U.S. history.

Sixty years later, Montgomery’s commemoration serves as both a tribute and a call to action. Mayor Reed emphasized the ongoing fight for democracy, stating that every generation has a role to play in ensuring justice for all.

The City of Montgomery invites people from across the world to attend this free and historic commemoration. For more details, visit www.montgomeryal.gov/60th.

SOURCE City of Montgomery

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