July 2 march to commemorate 50th anniversary of U.S. Civil Rights Act

A local grassroots group, Sussex Unity, is planning a peaceful march Wednesday, July 2, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act. This historic bill, signed by President Lyndon Johnson July 2, 1964, banned segregation on the grounds of race, religion or national origin at all places of public accommodation.

The march will begin at 6 p.m. in the parking lot at St. Michael’s Church, 202 Edward St. in Georgetown and continue to the big tent in the park on the grounds of Georgetown Presbyterian Church. Children will lead the march, so parents are encouraged to bring children of all ages.

Fay Blake, one of the organizers, says, “We hope young people will join us on this short walk commemorating a long journey that led to the outlawing of Jim Crow laws in our country. This was a watershed bill that paved the way for all future civil rights acts.”

After the short march along sidewalks, attendees will gather to hear excerpts from the inspirational speeches of civil rights and political leaders of the 1960s and join in songs of freedom and justice. Those who prefer not to march may meet in the big tent at 203 N. Bedford St.

Sussex Unity member Jane Hovington asks individuals to gather at St. Michael’s at 5:45 p.m., where programs and song sheets will be distributed. Attendees may park in St. Michael’s parking lot. There is also plenty of free street parking in the area. The event is nonpartisan, and political signs will not be permitted.

Individuals may learn more about the event at www.facebook.com/sussexunity or twitter.com/SussexUnity2014.