March commemorates 60th anniversary of event that included prominent civil rights activists
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 4, 2024) – Gov. Andy Beshear will participate Tuesday in a reenactment of the “March on Frankfort.” The original march, on March 5, 1964, was held in response to the stalling of legislation in the Kentucky General Assembly that would have eliminated segregation in public accommodations in the commonwealth. It drew an estimated 10,000 people, and speakers that day included Martin Luther King Jr. and Jackie Robinson. The folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary also performed at the event.
“This was a historic event for civil rights that happened right here in Kentucky,” said Gov. Beshear in a video inviting Kentuckians to the event. “Six decades ago, more than 10,000 people joined together in our capital city for a day filled with music and speeches for freedom. We hope to see you there as we celebrate the strength of previous generations of Kentuckians who marched for equality and made a permanent mark on our history.”
“This year’s March on Frankfort is a tribute to the brave souls who, 60 years ago, demanded justice and equality on the Capitol steps in Frankfort,” said Sen. Gerald Neal of Louisville. “Their historic march catalyzed change, leading to critical civil rights legislation. We gather now not just in memory, but to renew our dedication to their cause, fighting against discrimination and for equal rights for all. The spirit and significance of that march continue to inspire our efforts and move us forward today.”
“Tomorrow’s march is extremely important to me, because I was there as a small child when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackie Robinson, future state Senator Georgia Davis Powers and 10,000 others were demanding equality and justice for all,” Kentucky House Democratic Caucus Leader Derrick Graham said. “I never would have guessed that 60 years later, I would be serving as our capital’s state representative and a legislative leader as well. We have made so much progress, but there is still much work to be done. I want to thank my community and Gov. Beshear for all they did to make this ceremony possible and for doing all they can to make Kentucky a better place for us all.”
“I am thankful to God that I have witnessed so many changes,” said Kristie Powe, president of Focus on Race Relations and a member of the Frankfort Human Rights Commission. “The separation and division are not good for anyone. We are a rainbow of people. We are beginning to use the greatest weapon of all – the right to vote. By doing so, we are following the dream of Martin Luther King.”
“I proudly join my fellow Kentuckians in commemorating the 60th anniversary of the March on Frankfort,” said Charles Booker, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. “We gather to celebrate the progress made, but more so, this moment is a critical call for all of us to continue fighting for justice, humanity, peace and civil rights. Our marching is in no way finished.”
Events will begin at 9 a.m. EST, with Focus on Race Relations kicking things off at the Capital City Museum. At 10:45 a.m. EST, the march up Capital Avenue will begin. Several attendees will speak on the Capitol steps at noon EST, including some who attended the original march.
For more information on tomorrow’s march, click here.
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