Local organization supports national movement

The Missouri NAACP chapter is meeting every Saturday in August to support those participating in the Journey for Justice March.

The march began on August 1 in Selma, Alabama for the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act. and will end in Washington D.C. on September 16.

Mary Ratliff, Missouri NAACP President, has organized the prayer vigils at different churches throughout Columbia.

“We have to know how to mobilize people and that’s what we continue to do to make people aware that there’s still serious problems in this country,” she said.

Many supporters at the vigils are not members of the NCAAP organization, like Pat Holt. She said it’s important for all people to be treated equally.

“I think it’s pretty sad that 50 years ago they did and they have to do it again,” she said. “I’m upset by the prejudice in this country.”