So, my friends and I went to the Scotts Sisters Rally and March this Wednesday. There were a lot of things going on, a sea of people, posters, and banners. I went to represent my school, Tougaloo College, ACLU student chapter. For most of the people in TC-ACLU, it was their first time being at a march. Emotions were high with enthusiasm, and a little apprehensive. We all car pooled to the March’s starting point, Fairish Street Park. On the way we were sign and laughing and saying chants we heard, wondering what was in store for us.
Upon arriving we joined in with the other members from the State ACLU. They were super crunk too, so our enthusiasm just increased the more. It started with some motivational speakers telling why we were gathered and urging everyone to understand the severity of the matter at hand. Chokwe Lumumba, the Scott Sister lawyer warned us that people might have oppositions to us march, but assured that if we stood together our united message for justice would be carried over. The crowd around us was pumped. I recognized other students from Tougaloo College and Jackson State hold signs and banners. Everyone seemed excited. Right before we left the starting point and embarked on our journey, the last speaker gave us the rally’s theme slogan: We are here without fear, and we want our sisters free… The crowd readily caught on and started marching.
First we marched to Governor’s mansion. Along the way cameras were snapping and new chants developed. There was one particular sista who keep everything lively and upbeat. She was like, aint’ no party like the party of the people, cause the party of the people won't stop… The tune was super catchy. She was live all day. The energy form the crowd was awesomely contagious. I looked around at my friends and was shocked at what I saw. I mean, I was skeptical at how some of them would respond, because by nature they’re laid back, and soft spoken. However, everyone was feeling the mood, chanting, singing, marching, all in the name of freedom and justice. Like really, they were surprising me, it was super awesome.
So after leaving the Governor’s mansion we went to the state capitol. News vans were parked along the streets. We marched all the way up the steps. Representatives from different organizations went to speak on stage. The crowd and speakers feed off each other and the enthusiasm kept on rolling. A collection was taken up, and a letter from the sisters was read. They expressed their gratitude and sincere thanks for the support. They also expressed weariness and a deep longing to be free. The letter really touched me because it came at the end. By that time people were beginning to become tired and it was extremely hot. I myself was feeling the heaviness creep over. However, the letter refreshed me, for I thought if the Scott sisters could endure 15 years in prison, certainly I could manage a few hours of heat. I felt motivated to do more, upon leaving. The rally and march rejuvenated my thirst for activism and there is no limitation to what happens next….to be continued.
-Faith Jackson
Faith Jackson is a student at Tougaloo College and active member of the Tougaloo College ACLU chapter.
