By Edelia J. Carthan, Ed.D.
Consultant | Educator | Life Coach
PHOTO CREDIT: DR. JAY
This week marks the 29th anniversary of the historic Million Man March, a pivotal event in Black American history. On October 16, 1995, over one million Black men gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., in a powerful demonstration of unity, responsibility, and self-empowerment.
Organized by Minister Louis Farrakhan of the Nation of Islam, the march called attention to systemic racism, poverty, and injustice while encouraging Black men to take leadership roles in rebuilding their communities. Today, the legacy of that march continues to inspire efforts for racial equality and justice.
For some, the anniversary rekindles personal memories of a transformative experience. A group of students from
Tougaloo College had the unique opportunity to attend the 20th Anniversary of the Million Man March in 2015. Under the guidance of their professor, Dr. Edelia J. Carthan, and civil rights leader Dr. Eddie J. Carthan, the students witnessed the historic event firsthand and were invited to meet Minister Farrakhan on the rooftop of his hotel after the march.
That intimate encounter left a lasting impact. Also present at the gathering was Phaedra Parks, attorney and star of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta. Standing together with Farrakhan, the students were challenged to reflect on their identity and purpose. “Do you know who you are? Do you know whose you are?” Farrakhan asked the group, reinforcing the march’s core message of empowerment and accountability.
One student, reflecting on the experience, shared, “Meeting Minister Farrakhan felt like standing at the center of history. We were part of something bigger than ourselves, and it made me realize the role I play in my community.”
Dr. Carthan emphasized the transformative power of the event for the students. “The 20th Anniversary was more than a commemoration—it was a call to action. Our students walked away with a sense of purpose, understanding the importance of their place in the ongoing fight for social justice.”
The Million Man March continues to hold significance because it transcended being just a one-day event. Its message of unity, self-determination, and community uplift remains just as relevant today as it was in 1995. Minister Farrakhan’s words from that original day resonate now more than ever: “We must protect our communities, our families, and each other.”
As we observe this 29th anniversary, we reflect not only on the past but also on the enduring legacy of the march. The spirit of solidarity and empowerment it ignited still burns brightly, encouraging the next generation to continue the work toward justice and equality.
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