“The torch has been passed to a new generation”, these words were uttered by John F. Kennedy as he was inaugurated President of these United States. These words would give hope to many that a change was about to come in our nation. American citizens throughout the nation began to organize in order to challenge the status quo. Jim Crow and segregation would no longer be tolerated. The 20th Century Civil Rights Movement would become established and grow. Americans of all colors would take a stand for equality and justice for all.

Area residents would take an active role in the movement. Ann Moody would take a stand, by sitting down at the Woolworth lunch counter in Jackson. Geraldine Hollis would be arrested along with some of her classmates for attempting to read books at the white only library. Both of these freedom fighters were students at Tougaloo College, who had first studied at Natchez College on Union Street.

The spirit of the movement was strong here in this community, and many of the young were involved. Thousands would take to the street to hold peaceful marches in support of Civil Rights. They would have to endure violent opposition to their efforts. Kidnappings, beatings and bombing had become so common place in this area; they were no longer newsworthy, even after the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The Parchman Ordeal speaks to the events occurring in fall of 1965 here in the City of Natchez. Local citizens most in their teens and early twenties, armed only with determination attempted to make a difference. Not one of them could imagine what they would have to endure. Some of their stories have been documented and an inspiring film has been produced.

You are invited to join us at 6 p.m. on Thursday at the Natchez City Auditorium for the premiere of “The Parchman Ordeal — The Untold Story.” The voices you will hear will provide you with the tools for understanding. Examples of courage, sacrifice and commitment in fighting for what was right. Let this documentary be utilized as a vehicle for discussion throughout our community.

The producers would like to encourage middle and high school students to be present, to learn from these examples of our communities past. Keeping in mind that it was the young who contributed in making Natchez a better place for all back then and there is still much work to be done.

Darrell White is one of the producers of ”The Parchman Ordeal — The Untold Story.”