Establishment of the Medgar and Myrlie Evers National Monument

Name: Establishment of the Medgar and Myrlie Evers National Monument
Start: 1925-03-13
Location: Unspecified

The Legacy of Medgar and Myrlie Evers

The home of civil rights activists Medgar and Myrlie Evers was officially designated as a national monument on February 27, 2019, by President Donald Trump. This significant event marks a tribute to the couple's enduring contribution to the civil rights movement, particularly in the fight against racial injustice in the South. The Evers residence in Jackson, Mississippi, served not only as their home but also as a critical hub for civil rights activism during the turbulent era of the 1960s.

Medgar Evers: A Hero of the Civil Rights Movement

Medgar Evers was a prominent civil rights leader in the 1960s, serving as the Mississippi state field secretary for the NAACP. A veteran of World War II, Evers dedicated his life to fighting for equal rights and against racial segregation. Tragically, he was assassinated in 1963, but his legacy lives on through the ongoing struggle for equality.

Myrlie Evers: Continuing the Fight

Myrlie Evers, Medgar's widow, played a pivotal role in continuing her husband's legacy after his death. She was a civil rights activist in her own right and worked tirelessly to promote social justice and equality. Her efforts ensured that Medgar's work would not be forgotten, and she became a powerful voice in the fight against racism.

A National Honor in 2019

The establishment of the Evers home as a national monument symbolizes a recognition of the sacrifices made by Medgar and Myrlie Evers. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for civil rights in America and the importance of preserving history to educate future generations.

Significance of the National Monument

The designation helps to underscore the importance of grassroots activism in achieving civil rights. It not only preserves the history of the Evers family but also commemorates their efforts alongside countless others who fought against inequality.

Memorializing the Civil Rights Movement

By designating the Evers home as a national monument, the government acknowledges the role of everyday people in the fight for civil rights. It reinforces the message that every voice matters and that the struggle for justice continues.

Fun Fact

Myrlie Evers: First African American Woman to Chair the NAACP

In 1995, Myrlie Evers- Williams became the first African American woman to serve as the chair of the NAACP, showcasing her dedication to civil rights and leadership in the ongoing fight for equality.