Alexandria organization celebrates Black History Month, honors community activist

ALEXANDRIA, La. (KALB) – An Alexandria organization is marking Black History Month by celebrating faith, history and community leadership.

The Educational Missionary Baptist Association recently held its 131st continued session at New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church in Alexandria. The sessions are held four times a year, and this gathering ran from February 4-5. The event featured gospel music, praise and worship, fellowship and sermons centered on reflection and unity.

During the session, organizers emphasized the importance of recognizing the legacy of Black history and the sacrifices made by those who came before.

Community activist Alisha Jackson spoke about what Black History Month means to her, saying, “It’s about honoring all the people who have fought, bled and died for our freedom and for us to have rights. I know my great-great-grandparents were not able to obtain a college degree. But because of their sacrifices, I have three.”

As part of the celebration, Reverend Renwick Bacon honored Jackson for her ongoing work in the Alexandria community, including raising awareness about domestic violence and organizing community resource fairs.

Bacon praised Jackson’s decision to return home and invest in helping others.

“I applaud her moving back home and taking an active part,” he said. “Of course, she could have sat down on her seat of do-nothing, but this lady is everywhere, and she’s not just about town, but she’s helping people. She’s changing lives.”