Louisiana Civil Rights Trail unveiled its 11th physical historical marker. The newest marker commemorates the founding of the Deacons for Defense and Justice in Jonesboro. Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser says this marker is one of many stories representing the brave men and women who played a pivotal role in Louisiana Civil Rights era…
“Deacons of Defense was started right here in Jonesboro Louisiana. As we continue to uncover, unveil, honor, and put these markers up it will surely be a great tourists attraction on the tourism trail.”
The marker is located at the Deacons for Defense Park in Jonesboro. The Deacons for Defense was an armed group of African Americans who provided protection for civil rights workers, their families, and the black community. Nungesser says the journey of the Deacons will continue through family members and for years to come…
“Family members came from all over the country to see their loved ones honored for the work they did. And the bravery in the early days of the Civil Rights Movement. So, interviews that we done we surely going to live on for generations to come.”
Two notable founders of the Deacons are Earnest ‘Chilly Willy’ Thomas and Frederick Douglass Kirkpatrick. Nungesser says there were 21 Deacons of Defense and Justice organizations founded across the southeastern U.S. He says the Louisiana civil rights trail narrates compelling stories and experiences of the people who dedicated themselves and their lives to making civil rights real in Louisiana.
“You can go to civilrightsmuseum.com and you can find a map to all of them. In October, we will be unveiling the Civil Rights Museum in Ernest Morial Convention Center.”
The current trail consists of 15 site markers, commemorating Civil Rights Era in Louisiana. Visit louisianacivilrightstrail.com to follow the historical journey.
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