Montgomery Commemorates the March That Changed America--60 Years Since Selma

 "This Side of the Bridge: March to the Capitol" Honors the Legacy & Ongoing Fight for Voting Rights

MONTGOMERY, Ala., March 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The City of Montgomery will host a historic weekend of events March 21-23, 2025, commemorating 60 years since the Selma to Montgomery March, a pivotal moment that reshaped America's fight for voting rights.

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 massive demonstration at the Alabama State Capitol, where 25,000 people gathered in solidarity, ultimately securing the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965—one of the most consequential civil rights laws in U.S. history.

This year's 60th anniversary commemoration serves as both a tribute and a call to action, honoring the past while confronting today's challenges to democracy. Mayor Steven L. Reed, Montgomery's first African American mayor, will lead the city's efforts to reflect on the march's legacy, uniting national leaders, activists, and artists for a weekend of education, inspiration, and mobilization.

"The Selma to Montgomery March was never just about crossing a bridge—it was about crossing into a new era of democracy and justice," said Mayor Steven L. Reed. "Sixty years later, we celebrate the victory on this side of the bridge, but we know the work is not finished. Here in Montgomery, where history was made, we stand not just to commemorate, but to continue the fight. This anniversary reminds us that every generation—including ours—has a role to play in protecting democracy and ensuring justice for all."

A Weekend of Reflection, Celebration, and Action
The three-day commemoration will feature events honoring past civil rights heroes while inspiring new generations to continue the fight for justice.

Friday, March 21 – "This Side of the Bridge" Reception (6:30pm-10:00pm, Museum of Fine Arts)

• A gathering recognizing past and present civil rights leaders. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP by visiting www.montgomeryal.gov/60th.

Saturday, March 22 – Community & Family Fun Day (10:00am – 2:00pm, Carver High School)

• A family-friendly event featuring interactive exhibits, youth activities, and cultural programming designed to inspire civic engagement. Free to the public.

Saturday, March 22 – Stars for Freedom Rally (2:00pm – 8:00pm, Carver High School)

• A tribute to the historic 1965 "Stars for Freedom" Rally, featuring performances and speeches from nationally recognized artists, thought leaders, and advocates. Free to the public.

Sunday, March 23 – This Side of the Bridge: March to the Capitol (1:00pm, City of St. Jude to the Alabama State Capitol)

• A reenactment of the final leg of the Selma to Montgomery March, ending at the Alabama State Capitol—the same site where thousands stood in 1965 to demand voting rights. Free registration at https://runtheday.com/register/detail/march-to-the-capitol/

Special Guests & National Figures
A dynamic lineup of artists, activists, and leaders will participate in this historic commemoration. Notable attendees include actor Larenz Tate, hip-hop icon Big Boi, television host Terrence J, pastor and activist Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant, award-winning gospel artists Jekalyn Carr and Pastor Mike Jr., award-winning producer, director, actress 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.

Bringing History to Life: A Virtual Journey Through the Selma to Montgomery March
As part of the 60th anniversary commemoration, the City of Montgomery is integrating an immersive metaverse experience, first announced in early February, to allow participants to engage with the historic Selma to Montgomery March in a groundbreaking way.

This digital experience offers attendees—both in Montgomery and those joining remotely—the opportunity to explore key moments along the Civil Rights Trail, walk the historic route from St. Jude Campus to the Alabama State Capitol, and interact with AI-driven avatars of historical figures. Crafted using historical records, photographs, and expert input, the metaverse experience ensures an accurate and dynamic representation of this pivotal moment in history.

Montgomery is the only city in the world chosen to pilot this innovative project by one of the finance world's Magnificent Seven Stock companies, the $4 trillion NVIDIA. This groundbreaking partnership underscores Montgomery's role as a leader in blending history with advanced technology, creating a first-of-its-kind digital archive that enhances both education and civic engagement. The experience is available to anyone with internet access and a web browser, requiring no special equipment.

How to Participate

The City of Montgomery welcomes people from across the nation and around the world to attend this free and historic commemoration. For more details on how to participate in both the in-person and virtual experiences, visit www.montgomeryal.gov/60th.

For media inquiries and press details, contact: Derek D. Ross at [email protected] | 919.423.5617.

About the City of Montgomery
Montgomery, Alabama, is a city steeped in history and driven by progress. As the birthplace of the civil rights movement and a hub for innovation, Montgomery blends a rich cultural heritage with a vision for the future. Montgomery is a city where everyone has the freedom to live, learn, and earn. Under the leadership of Mayor Steven L. Reed, the city is committed to fostering economic growth, enhancing public safety, and advancing equity and opportunity for all residents. Home to world-class museums, thriving businesses, and cutting-edge technology initiatives, Montgomery continues to lead as a vibrant and inclusive capital city. For more information, visit www.montgomeryal.gov and follow us on social media @CityofMGM.

SOURCE City of Montgomery