JONESBOR0 –The newest Louisiana Civil Rights Trail Marker will be unveiled Thursday, July 6, 2023 in Jonesboro. This eleventh marker for Louisiana will commemorate the founding of the Deacons for Defense and Justice in Jonesboro. And it will recognize when Black citizens overcame the burning of Bethany and Pleasant Grove Baptist Churches, working diligently for equal rights and freedoms.

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, who envisioned the Louisiana Civil Rights Trail, where people can learn about “the real-life heroes who strategized, organized, preached, marched, boycotted, stood up, sat down, and sang for change,” will speak a 1:00 p.m. presentation ceremony and reception at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 160 Industrial Drive, in Jonesboro.

Joyce Amos Smith remembers well when the Deacons for Defense began in the back room of her father’s gas station. She will share memories of the Jackson Parish adults and students who demonstrated great courage in the fight for civil rights. The Deacons helped establish other chapters in Louisiana, Mississippi, and other states.

Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris and Jackson Parish Tourism Board President Christie Weeks agree that recognizing Jonesboro as the birthplace of the Deacons for Defense and Justice highlights a crucial segment of Louisiana’s civil right history.

Following the presentation, those attending will proceed to the site of the marker at 135 Richard Zuber Thruway (US Highway 167) for the unveiling.

Those planning to attend are asked to rsvp to jtregre@crt.la.gov. Learn more about the struggle to “Make Rights Real” at www.louisianacivilrightstrail.com.