Many adults who participated in the event agree that when it comes to the Selma Bridge Crossing re-enactment, not only is it about continuing to build upon what those who crossed this bridge did years ago, but to also pass valuable lessons on to younger generations.
Jamahna Nelson has been coming to the Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee since she was 3 years old.
“I just think it’s good to be here because we get to see how civil rights was and what the people went through to make it how it is today.”
She’s a member of Birmingham Girl Scout Troop 300; her mother Beneva Nelson says the event is a teaching opportunity.
“This is one of the ways they can actually take part in it and maybe that would inspire them to go forward and do something that’s gunna bring about change later on.”
The troop makes the bridge crossing an annual event. For a few girls in the troop, it was their first time.
“You wouldn’t catch most young girls at a re-enactment of something that happened way before they were born but for us to come out here and take part in everything that’s been going on its very important to me.” says Jasmyne Billups.
Nelson says she hopes the experience molds the young girls for the future.
“I think it’s important for them to know about things from their past so they’ll be better prepared to make informed decisions about what they do in their future.”
The Bridge Crossing Jubilee wraps up on March 9th.
Reverend Al Sharpton will head the historic march from Selma to the state capitol, to protest laws that try to suppress voting.
Courtesy of www.thebellereport.net www.twitter.com/thebellereport
