News Summary
On October 16, 2025, Baltimore hosted a gathering in Druid Hill Park to mark the 30th anniversary of the Million Man March. Attendees, including community members and leaders, reflected on the importance of unity, peace, and ongoing advocacy for the African American community. The event celebrated the enduring legacy of the original march and highlighted advancements in representation and community solidarity over the past three decades.
Baltimore—On October 16, 2025, a diverse group of men and women gathered in Druid Hill Park to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Million Man March. The commemorative event commenced at 6 a.m. and attracted community members, along with local and national leaders, all united in their commitment to ongoing efforts for unity, peace, and equality within the African American community.
The original Million Man March took place on October 16, 1995, where nearly 1 million Black men convened at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This historic gathering called on Congress to address the pressing needs of the African American community while also working to combat harmful stereotypes regarding Black men. The march was organized by Louis Farrakhan, leader of the Nation of Islam (NOI), with Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. serving as a key figure in its orchestration. Dr. Chavis, now president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), played a significant role despite his different faith background, citing a divine call to participate in organizing the event.
During the anniversary event, Dr. Chavis referred to the Million Man March as a pivotal moment for fostering brotherhood and community among Black men. The 1995 event featured prayers and an emphasis on unity and activism against self-hatred and violence prevalent in the Black community. Attendees at the 2025 gathering reflected on their experiences from the original march, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere that was present at that time, free from substance abuse issues.
Among the attendees was Kaleb Tshamba, who reminisced about how the 1995 march inspired many to engage in community service and advocacy. Sister Velma Muhammad, who had recently returned from living in Ghana, also took part in the anniversary celebration. Carltaise Ransom underlined the importance of unity among African Americans as they face various systemic challenges. These sentiments were echoed collectively, as many participants noted the advancements made in the last three decades, such as the increased representation of Black individuals in political positions, including the current governor and mayor of Baltimore.
Dr. Chavis remarked on the ongoing dedication of local organizations in Baltimore, many of which have sustained their efforts through the organizing committee established over 30 years ago since the original march. The anniversary weekend featured additional activities, such as a gathering at Coppin State University and a Brothers to Brotherhood Town Hall at Morgan State University. Each event reiterated that the lessons and inspirations from the Million Man March remain relevant, given the persisting challenges of mass incarceration and police brutality impacting Black communities today.
The call for education, self-determination, and community solidarity resonated throughout the speeches and discussions at the commemorative event. As participants reflected on the original march, many described it as a transformative experience that encouraged continued engagement in social justice initiatives and community activism. The legacy of the Million Man March continues to guide these ongoing efforts for social equity and justice within African American communities.
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Additional Resources
- AFRO: Million Man March 30th Anniversary in Baltimore
- WMAR2 News: Men Gather in Baltimore for Million Man March Anniversary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Million Man March
- WBAL TV: Million Man March 30 Years Later
- Word In Black: Million Man March Turns 30 – Why It Still Matters
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