Vice President Kamala Harris traveled to Selma, Alabama to commemorate the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, a 1965 march where protesters, led by the late Rep. John Lewis, were attacked by state troopers. The event marked the ongoing fight against racial injustice throughout the country.
Congresswoman Terri Sewell, AL-07, welcomed Harris on March 3rd, according to a report in Alabama Political Reporter. The vice president’s speech highlighted the legacy and underscore the importance of the Civil Rights Movement and acknowledge the ongoing efforts to ensure justice for all and inspire Americans to persist in defending fundamental freedoms that are currently facing threats across the nation. Second gentleman Douglas Craig Emhoff will accompanied his wife at the event.
“At a time when our fundamental freedoms have come under renewed threat, we are grateful to have a President and Vice President who have remained steadfast in their commitment to the cause for which the Foot Soldiers marched, fought, and even died,” Rep. Sewell told the publication. “I am looking forward to welcoming Vice President Harris back to my hometown for a day of remembrance, reflection, and rededication.”
In 2022, Harris visited Alabama to commemorate the anniversary of Bloody Sunday. During her time there, she engaged with Civil Rights leaders, participated in a historic march in Selma, and delivered a compelling speech urging Congress to safeguard democracy by upholding the freedom to vote.
“Those who marched across this bridge — yes, they marched for the freedom to vote; they also marched for all of the rights and freedoms that voting unlocks,” Harris said at the time. “They marched for economic justice, for social justice, for racial justice, and we must do the same.”
She continued: “We must fight to ensure all the people of our nation — no matter where they start — have the opportunity to succeed. We must fight to move our nation forward while we reflect on why it matters.”
