“Blood Tuesday” was a tragedy that took place on June 9, 1964, at the First African Baptist Church in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This historical event was centered on the newly built Tuscaloosa County Courthouse and a march was planned by citizens to integrate the white and the colored drinking fountains and restrooms.

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59 years ago those witnessed more than two dozen peaceful demonstrators hospitalized with injuries, many tear gassed and waterhosed. Also, many others were jailed following police retaliation against an organized protest over segregated water fountains and bathrooms in the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse.

“Freedom Ain’t Free” – 59th Anniversary Commemoration Details

This year, the “Bloody Tuesday Committee will commemorate the anniversary of this horrendous day in the annals of Tuscaloosa. The goals of the committee are to publicize and elevate the event; to recognize those brave foot soldiers and unsung heroines who were a part of the unforgettable nightmare,” according to a press release from the Bloody Tuesday Committee.

In addition, the committee will aim to raise awareness of the historical “March” that helped to open the doors and alter the course of segregation in the city. The memorable program and commemoration with be on Sunday, June 4, at The First African Baptist Church located at 2621 Stillman Boulevard, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 starting at 3:00 p.m.

The guest speaker is Reverend William McDowell, Senior Pastor of Liberty Missionary Baptist Church in Tuscaloosa, there will be a video guest speaker dedication and special recognition to “Unsung Heroes.”

Photo courtesy of the Bloody Tuesday Committee | Canva
Photo courtesy of the Bloody Tuesday Committee | Canva
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(Source) A press release was sent to Townsquare Media by the Bloody Tuesday Committee.

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