On Tuesday, June 13th, Detroit Branch NAACP President Wendell Anthony, accompanied by members and allies, held a press conference to reveal exciting updates regarding the Fight for Freedom weekend. The June Jubilee, an four-day event, will kick off on Thursday, June 22nd. This unforgettable weekend will feature a dynamic summit, the much-awaited unveiling of the Martin Luther King Jr. statue, the inspiring MLK Freedom Walk and rally, and the prestigious Freedom Fund Dinner. Brace yourselves for a weekend filled with empowerment, celebration, and a shared commitment to the pursuit of freedom and equality..
The June Jubilee aims to honor, educate, and unite individuals who have made significant contributions to our community and played a crucial role in shaping a brighter future. At the upcoming Fight for Freedom Fund extravaganza, renowned rapper Doug E. Fresh will receive recognition for his remarkable achievements in rap music, marking 50 years of his impactful career. Joining him in this esteemed group of awardees will be former U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young, 91, a respected figure and one of the last surviving lieutenants of King. The Sunday night dinner, featuring Democratic U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock as the keynote speaker, will serve as a platform to pay homage to these exceptional individuals.
The event will also honor other notable dignitaries including Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra Harris Bolden, Michigan state Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit), Erin Keith, managing policy counsel for the Detroit Justice Center, and Ken Nixon, president of the Organization of Exonerees. Together, they will be celebrated for their remarkable contributions and dedication to their respective fields.
On June 23, 1963, the Walk to Freedom occurred as a powerful demonstration against segregation and the prevalent inequalities in wages, education, and housing. This historic event, documented by Wayne State University’s Walter P. Reuther Library, brought together a diverse group of participants including community activists, labor organizers, clergymen, and government officials. Notably, it was in Detroit where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered a significant rendition of his renowned “I Have A Dream” speech, foreshadowing the momentous March on Washington that would take place a few months later. The Walk to Freedom stands as a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for civil rights and social justice.
“We’re reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: ‘Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to lift our nations from the quicksand of racial injustice, to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now’s the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children. Now’s the time for us to reenergize our people and to refocus our efforts on the work that is still yet to be done.’ Detroit will be the scene to remind the nation of the need to maintain our vigilance and commitment to freedom, justice and equity,” Anthony said.
Amidst the events lined up for the weekend, a truly captivating highlight awaits us—the grand unveiling of the MLK statue, which will find its permanent residence at the iconic Hart Plaza, nestled in the heart of the city. This momentous occasion will not only honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., but also serve as a powerful symbol of unity, hope, and progress for all who encounter it.
“I am so thrilled that this statue is going to live at Hart Plaza. It will be where anybody can see it. It is ADA compliant so if you are in a wheelchair you can roll right up and touch him,” said Rochelle Riley, Director of Arts and Culture for the City of Detroit. “Hart Plaza is our Times Square. Hart Plaza is our community space.”
The historic June Jubilee will commence on June 22nd with the Freedom Walk Summit at Wayne County Community College District-Northwest Campus. This engaging summit will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature renowned speakers such as professors Kimberlé Crenshawn and Michael Eric Dyson, as well as author Ayanna Gregory.
For more information on the events visit www.detroitnaacp.org. There you can sign up for the Freedom Walk, as well as purchase tickets for the Freedom Fund Dinner.
It is a time to honor the past, revel in the present, and envision a future filled with progress and unity. Let us come together, inspired by the collective spirit of resilience and determination, as we participate in these momentous occasions that will shape our community for years to come. The June Jubilee promises to be a celebration of milestones, a celebration of culture, and above all, a celebration of our shared journey towards a better tomorrow.
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