Augusta Celebrates Black History Month with MLK Jr. Parade

News Summary

On February 1, 2025, Augusta hosted its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, marking the start of Black History Month. The event featured vibrant celebrations on Laney-Walker Boulevard, with thousands attending to honor Dr. King’s legacy and the contributions of the African American community. Various local figures emphasized the importance of unity and education as key themes for the occasion.

Augusta Kicks Off Black History Month with Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

On February 1, 2025, the charming city of Augusta burst with joy and vibrancy as it hosted its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, marking the exciting beginning of Black History Month. This amazing celebration sprawled across the beloved Laney-Walker Boulevard, a street steeped in rich history and significance within Augusta’s African American community.

The parade was a fantastic effort by the city of Augusta, joined by the hard-working members of the Augusta-Richmond County Branch of the NAACP. Thousands turned out, creating a jubilant atmosphere filled with proud faces, festive music, and lots of smiles, all gathered to honor the powerful legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as well as various historical figures who shaped Black history.

An Incredibly Meaningful Tradition

Among the parade participants was Sibea Lewis, a devoted member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, who beautifully shared the importance of learning and understanding history. Such knowledge is a vital guide for future generations. Her sentiments resonated throughout the crowd, echoing the collective need to remember and appreciate the past.

For many, attending this annual event is like a rite of passage. Cashus Williams, a lifelong Augusta resident, couldn’t hide his delight when recalling his experiences at previous parades. Much of the joy comes from seeing how the community has gathered year after year, united for a common cause.

Laney-Walker Boulevard: A Historic Backbone

Laney-Walker Boulevard is not just any street; it is a historically significant area for Augusta’s Black community. Its rich legacy connects people to important landmarks, including the famed Lucy Laney School and AR Johnson. This area holds cherished memories and deep sentiments among attendees, further amplifying the significance of the parade.

Another key figure in the parade, Apostle Auturus Dizzley, noted how such an event fosters a stronger sense of unity and encourages community service. It is more than just festivities; it’s a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together.

Education and Pride: A Collective Mission

Melvin Ivey, the president of the Augusta NAACP, emphasized the necessity of educating younger generations about the invaluable contributions of African Americans. The focus on education ensures that the spirit of activism and legacy will continue to thrive in the hearts of future leaders.

In this festive gathering, attendee Terry Newsome expressed their immense pride in joining the celebration of Black history. This pride resonated through the community, as the parade showcased city organizations, lively social groups, and the exhilaration of local high school bands.

Additional Celebrations and Historical Connections

Lucy C. Laney Museum of Black History, where a captivating program highlighted the contributions of Black caddies to Augusta’s golf history. Local events were also planned, including the Men on the Bag experience, which celebrated distinguished Black caddies like Willie “Pappy” Stokes and Willie Frank “Cemetery” Perteet during the highly anticipated Masters Week.

Leon Maben, the visionary behind the Men on the Bag initiative, was inspired by the recognition of Black jockeys in the Kentucky Derby Hall of Fame. His project aimed to shine a light on the often-overlooked stories of Black caddies, helping audiences learn and appreciate their rich contributions. To honor this legacy, a unique monument shaped like a golf tee was recently unveiled at Sand Hills Community.

Also present was Ward Clayton, author of “The Legendary Caddies of Augusta National,” who highlighted the critical importance of acknowledging these dynamic stories. Attendees echoed their desire for these remarkable stories to reach wider audiences, ensuring that the legacy of Black caddies is celebrated and never forgotten.

In a heartwarming way, Augusta woven together history, pride, and unity, making the Martin Luther King Jr. Parade a joyous and unforgettable event. Let’s continue to cherish these moments and strive to educate, celebrate, and uplift future generations!

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Additional Resources

• WJBF: Augusta’s MLK Jr. Parade Kicks Off Black History Month
• WTOC: Black History Month Fact of the Day
• WFXG: MLK Parade Kicks Off Black History Month
• Wikipedia: Black History Month
• Google Search: Black History Month