The 1964 March on Frankfort was organized by Kentuckians with guest speakers Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, and Jackie Robinson. Music was provided by folk artists Peter, Paul and Mary and the Kentucky State College choir, led by Dr. Carl H. Smith. Ten-thousand people marched on Frankfort that day, and it led to the passage of the Kentucky Civil Rights Act of 1966.
Kentucky was the first state south of the Mason-Dixon Line to pass its own state-level Civil Rights Act. The March on Frankfort was an important part of the process. Kentuckians demonstrated, and demanded, freedom.
Focus on Race Relations (FORR) is pleased to announce the reenactment of the 1964 Freedom March on Frankfort.
On Tuesday, March 5, 2024, we will gather at the Capital City Museum in Downtown Frankfort. The March will begin at 10:45, crossing the War Mothers’ Memorial Bridge and proceeding up Capital Avenue to the steps of the Capitol where we will hear from an inspiring panel of speakers.
Honored guests will include people who attended the original 1964 march and the Kentucky State Concert Choir. From the podium, we will hear from Governor Andy Beshear, Senator Gerald Neal, Rev. Kevin Cosby, and activist Mattie Jones – and others to be announced – who will speak to the strength of previous generations who marched for equality and civil rights.
Details for Tuesday March 5, 2024:
- 9:00 – 10:45 am gather at the Capital City Museum for refreshments, sign-making, and an appearance by actor Darryl Van Leer, who plays the part of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and who will lead the march.
- 10:45 – 12:00 March up Capital Avenue to the Capitol
- 12:00 Program on the steps of the Capitol
- 1:00 transportation, shuttles, return to buses and cars
VFW Post 4075 104 E 2nd St, Frankfort, KY 40601 will provide water and bathrooms for all.
Support for the 60th Anniversary of the 1964 Freedom March on Frankfort is provided by: Focus on Race Relations (FORR), Governor Andy Beshear, Team Kentucky, City of Frankfort, Visit Frankfort, Capital City Museum, MLK Commission, Kentucky Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, Expree Credit Union, Kentucky State University, Joanna Hay Productions.
Information on the 1964 event: https://sites.google.com/frankfort.ky.gov/themarchonfrankfort/home
