Terri Sewell, one of the candidates hoping to replace Artur Davis in congress (AL-07), was on hand along with a number of supporters. Terri was raised in Selma, and her family roots reveal a presence during the events of 1965.
A bust of Martin Luther King, Jr, stands in front of Brown Chapel, where the march began. In my book (Those Others), one of the characters took part in the march on Bloody Sunday, and his account of the event is posted in an excerpt from the soon to be released book (the cover design has been approved and the final complete proof is being prepared.)
Supporters for Ron Sparks were out in numbers at the event.
Artur Davis supporters were in the crowd as well, and I spoke with a Davis sign carrier about the candidate's "no" vote on health care reform, flip flop on hate crimes legislation, and lack of support for ENDA (employment non-discrimination). Nothing new or encouraging from that supporter.
Marchers in 1965 might have looked toward heaven in prayer as they ascended the bridge. This is what they might have seen.
But when they reached the crest they would have seen State Troopers waiting at the foot of the bridge. Yesterday, State Troopers played a much different role, and their presence was appreciated.
Between 6,000 and 7,000 took part in the march yesterday.
After the march we had our picture taken by someone from the Freedom Foundation, which is working to improve the community in various ways. We need them here, in Bessemer.
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