On this date in 1995, the Million-Man March was held in Washington D.C.
Minister Louis Farrakhan of the Nation of Islam organized this march meant as a symbol of African American solidarity. The autumn chill of that day was barely noticeable by the one million who gathered and wrapped themselves in racial pride and unity. It was a time when the world witnessed the largest gathering of African Americans in the history of the United States. It was a day when 2.2 million people saw the event on television.
Those who participated reflected the diversity of our country. They included laborers, educators, postal workers, truck drivers, police officers, attorneys, waiters, electricians, ministers, business people, doctors, government employees, artists, chefs, musicians, teachers, pharmacists, entertainers, athletes, and politicians.
Fathers, husbands, brothers, uncles--all Black men telling the nation that they will take responsibility for the social despair in their communities--each of them telling the nation that they will help reduce Black-on-Black crime, respect Black women, and seek spiritual support and guidance.
