This past weekend, hundreds of thousands flocked to Washington, D.C, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Million Man March. Among those people were dozens of celebrities that used their image to spread awareness about the march and the issues that were being addressed all across social media.
In attendance were Sean “Diddy” Combs, Common, J.Cole, Snoop Dogg, comedian Dave Chappelle, and rap and business mogul Russell Simmons, among many other celebrities that were present to show their support.
In fact, it was Simmons who requested TV network BET to move the date that they would televise their annual Hip-Hop Awards in observance of the march. According to Allhiphop, they obliged, moving the show from October 10 to October 9.
Activists, personalities and organizers from all across the nation joined together to rally in the streets chanting, “Justice or Else” , the theme of this year’s rally, as well as using lyrics from Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar’s popular and empowering song “Alright”.
The event was organized by Nation of Islam Leader Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. he gathering is known for being one of love, peace, and unity that welcomes those from diverse faith traditions, races, political beliefs.
On their website it is also stressed that there are no guns, alcohol or drugs allowed at the rally. This year, the focus of the march on the National Mall was not just on Black civil rights, but the inclusion of the rights of Native Americans, Mexicans, Latinos, veterans, women, the incarcerated, and the poverty stricken.
As well, the larger message that Farrakhan delivered was one about the importance of the ever growing Black Lives Matter movement, mass incarceration and the rising number of deaths of unarmed citizens, particularly black males. In addition to condemning police brutality, he also called for the boycotting of “Xmas Holiday Spending”.
While many criticize the effectiveness of the “Justice or Else” rally, pointing to the fact that it has been two decades since the very first march. Change, the way that the organizers hope to see it, is a gradual thing. As long as it remains a positive tent pole in not just the Black community, the conversations about the issues being addressed will continue to cycle.
What is most important to note is that it helps bring awareness to younger generations in hopes to have them experience the rally in all its magnitude for themselves.
If you would like to learn how to get involved for next year’s rally or if you just want to get informed visit www.justiceorelse.com.
Zhana Johnson
Senior Features Editor
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