Coming of Age in Mississippi by Anne Moody | Part 4: The Movement, Chapter 29

Summary

In 'Coming-of-Age in Mississippi', the protagonist returns to the Canton Freedom House in May 1964, where she is deeply moved by the unity and determination of black marchers singing 'Oh Freedom'. Confronted by police brutality during a march, the activists, including an elderly man, display courage and unity. Despite the fear of violence and imprisonment, the movement's cohesion strengthens. The protagonist, feeling the weight of the ongoing struggle, is uncertain about her future but remains committed to the civil rights cause.

Takeaways

• 🎓 The protagonist returns to the Canton Freedom House in May 1964 after a graduation ceremony, highlighting the intersection of education and activism.
• 🎤 The protagonist is deeply moved by the singing of 'Oh Freedom' during a march, showing the power of music in the civil rights movement.
• 👥 The presence of both older and younger activists at the march signifies intergenerational solidarity within the movement.
• 👮‍♂️ The police brutality experienced by the protesters, particularly the beating of a young man, underscores the violent resistance they faced.
• 👴 An elderly man's leadership in the march to the jail demonstrates the courage and resilience of the older generation in the movement.
• 🚔 The escalation of police violence after witnessing the organization of the movement indicates a reactionary response to perceived threats.
• 🤔 The protagonist's uncertainty about her future reflects the broader uncertainty and challenges faced by activists during this period.
• 🏠 The protagonist's experience of feeling lonely without her family and the support she finds among her activist friends highlight the sense of community within the movement.
• 👗 A new dress from Addie Line symbolizes personal growth and the support network that helps the protagonist navigate her journey.
• 📚 The mention of a potential college diploma suggests the importance of education as a tool for empowerment and social change.
• 🔗 The protagonist's plan to work with the civil rights organization COFO in the summer shows her commitment to the cause and the broader network of civil rights groups.

Q & A

What event is described in Part Four, Chapter 29 of 'Coming of Age in Mississippi'?

The event described is a march that the protagonist participates in, which is met with police violence and racial slurs, leading to a confrontation and a discussion among the protesters about their response.

How does the protagonist feel about the number of adults attending the march?

The protagonist is astonished by the number of adults attending the march, which indicates the growing involvement of the community in the civil rights movement.

What spiritual song do the marchers sing, and what does it symbolize?

The marchers sing 'Oh Freedom,' symbolizing their hope and determination for change and the possibility of a better future.

What incident occurs during the march to the courthouse involving the police?

During the march to the courthouse, two police officers harass teenage activists with racial slurs, leading to an escalation where a young man is beaten so badly that the crowd thinks he is dead.

What action do the protesters take after the beating incident?

The emotional protesters gather to discuss their options, and several volunteers step forward to march to the jail and risk arrest in protest of the police violence.

Who leads the march to the jail and how does he respond to the police?

An elderly man leads the march to the jail and bravely stands up to the police, demonstrating the courage and unity of the movement.

What happens to the young activist, McKinley, after being beaten by the police?

McKinley survives the beating but is a central figure in the incident that highlights the severity of police violence against the activists.

How does the protagonist feel during Edie King's graduation ceremony?

The protagonist feels lonely without her family and uncertain about her future, but also experiences a sense of respect and camaraderie with her activist friends.

What does the protagonist plan to do during the summer after her graduation?

The protagonist plans to work with the civil rights umbrella organization COFO (Council of Federated Organizations) during the summer.

What surprise does Addie give the protagonist when she returns to New Orleans?

Addie surprises the protagonist with a new dress and also hints at the possibility of her obtaining a college diploma.

How does the protagonist view the older black adults' involvement in the movement?

The protagonist observes that despite the brainwashing of white supremacy and conditioning, many older black adults have joined the movement, valuing the chance for freedom.

What does the protagonist realize about the movement's progress and the challenges ahead?

The protagonist realizes that the movement has become more unified and determined, but also acknowledges that the road ahead for civil rights is still long and filled with resistance.