MINDEN, La. — The city of Minden marked Black History Month on Saturday with its 39th annual Martin Luther King Black History Parade, a celebration honoring the life and legacy of the Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and the broader contributions of Black Americans.
The downtown parade route was sprinkled with colors of red, black, green and yellow as floats, marching bands, dance teams and community organizations made their way through the streets. Community members lined the downtown sidewalks, catching candy, cheering on performers and gathering for what many described as a can’t-miss annual tradition.
The event is hosted each year by the Minden MLK Celebration Committee. Chair Fayrine Kemon-Gilbert said the celebration not only reflects on King’s legacy but also highlights Black excellence and the importance of investing in young people.
“We’re excited that we’re celebrating the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, as well as Black history and Black excellence and the contributions to America,” Kemon-Gilbert said. “We also celebrate our youth because we want them to know that we support them.”
Longtime resident Truvesta Johnson said she attends the parade every year and has seen it grow over time.
“I like the progress that’s being made in Minden toward the parade,” Johnson said. “The participation has been great, and I’m glad to be here.”
Johnson emphasized the importance of unity across generations, saying community involvement plays a key role in helping young people succeed.
“It takes all of us to help these young people grow up and look up to us,” she said.
Participants also expressed pride in seeing Black history recognized in their hometown. Parade participant Aaliyah Allen said seeing her hometown celebrate Black history carries special meaning, especially for young people.
“It means a lot when your hometown recognizes and celebrates Black history in this way,” Allen said. “As young Black women, we are Black history. We’re the future of Black history.”
The celebration concluded with a program featuring scholarship announcements and contest awards.
