Foot Soldiers Park Marks the Passage of the Voting Rights Act

On August 6, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act (VRA) into law. This historic act was a direct consequence of the bravery and perseverance of the foot soldiers of the Civil Rights Movement – including that of our founder, Ms. JoAnne Bland. Within months of its passage, hundreds of thousands of disenfranchised Black Americans registered to vote, dramatically changing the voting profile of the nation. Each year, Foot Soldiers Park honors this sacred event with activities designed to cultivate the next generation of activists and uplift the residents of Selma who, over the past 50 years, have been denied the resources and opportunities they need and deserve.

As part of these celebrations this year, FSP hosted the Voting Rights Act Birthday Bash, which brought together generations of voting rights activists, elected officials and those interested in ensuring the vote is a protected right for all Americans. Foot Soldier Mr. John Pettaway was honored with the Trailblazer Award while Collins Pettway III  received the Legacy Carrier Award. Live entertainment was provided by the Jous Band of Tuscaloosa.