Beloved HBCU Mississippi Valley State University has been invited to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration. The “Green Marching Machine” will participate in Trump's 60th Presidential Inauguration Parade as Trump begins his second term as the 47th President of the United States. United States, January 20, 2025. In a social media announcement, the university celebrated the opportunity as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” for its students. Mississippi Valley State University President Dr. Jeryl Briggs expressed pride, saying, “This is a proud moment not only for our university, but for all of Mississippi.” He emphasized that the performance was a showcase of the band's cultural heritage and Opportunity to inspire future community leaders. However, the move sparked a backlash from many fans and activists. Bishop Talbot Swan was one of many to express disappointment at the decision, calling it a “shameful betrayal” of the school's legacy. Mississippi Valley State University @MVSUDEVILS has a proud history of standing up for Black history, equity and justice. Yet accepting an invitation to perform at President Donald Trump’s inauguration on Martin Luther King Day is a shameful betrayal of that… pic.twitter.com/kOzctXXY7Y — Bishop Talbot Swan ( @TalbertSwan ) December 28, 2024 The 250-member band is actively fundraising to cover $350,000 in travel, lodging, meals and equipment transportation costs. The GoFundMe page highlights the band's rich performance history, which includes appearances at NBA games and famous parades like the Rose Bowl and New Orleans Mardi Gras. Mississippi Valley State University’s tradition of excellence shines through this opportunity. The band made history by becoming the first HBCU to participate in the 1965 Rose Parade and performed at President Nixon's inauguration in 1968. They now follow Talladega College's Big Tornadoes Marching Band, which performed at Trump's 2017 inauguration and raised $667,000 in support. Like this: Like Loading… Subscribe to from Baller Alert Get more information and the latest posts sent to your email.
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