New Mississippi Freedom Trail Marker Honors Civil Rights Era Lawyers Jackson Civil Rights
Jackson, Miss. — Visit Mississippi and the Mississippi Humanities Council recently unveiled a Mississippi Freedom Trail marker honoring civil rights attorneys who fought for equal justice under the law during the Jim Crow era.
In the 1950s and 1960s, three Black lawyers courageously championed the cause of civil rights and equal justice. R. Jess Brown, Carsie Hall Sr., and Jack Young Sr., who practiced law from offices on Farish Street, served their clients with bravery despite constant threats to their lives and livelihoods. They frequently partnered with attorneys from outside Mississippi to secure freedom and new opportunities for Black citizens.
“Mississippi attorneys R. Jess Brown, Carsie Hall Sr., and Jack Young Sr. were instrumental in advancing the civil rights movement within Mississippi and across the nation,” said Visit Mississippi Director Rochelle Hicks. “This marker commemorates their integrity, perseverance, and steadfast belief in the American judicial system, ensuring their contributions are duly recognized and preserved for future generations.”
The marker joins more than 40 others on the Mississippi Freedom Trail—a statewide series created in 2011 to honor key civil rights figures and sites—and stands adjacent to the Big Apple Inn restaurant on historic Farish Street, where the honored attorneys maintained offices during the civil rights movement.
About the Mississippi Freedom Trail:
The Mississippi Freedom Trail pays tribute to Mississippi’s profound impact on the U.S. civil rights movement. The statewide initiative features over 40 markers commemorating the individuals, locations, and pivotal events that were instrumental in the struggle for civil rights. Administered by Visit Mississippi in partnership with the Mississippi Humanities Council, the Mississippi Freedom Trail is supported by a State Tourism Grant from the US. Economic Development Administration.
About Visit Mississippi:
Celebrated as The Hospitality State and proudly known as the Birthplace of America’s Music, Mississippi invites visitors to experience a rich tapestry of culture, history, and unforgettable adventures. From the soulful sounds of the Delta to the serene beauty of the Gulf Coast and Appalachian foothills, Mississippi is a destination where every journey tells a story.
Visit Mississippi, a division of the Mississippi Development Authority, serves as the state’s official destination marketing organization. As storytellers and cultural ambassadors, we champion Mississippi through strategic global marketing, innovative partnerships, and creative collaboration. Our mission is to elevate the state’s thriving tourism economy and inspire visitors from around the world to discover the magic that is Mississippi.
For more information, visit visitmississippi.org.
