“Natchez Together: A Festival of Ideas” Celebrates Civil Rights, Community, and Visionary Leadership

Natchez, Mississippi – January 31, 2025 – The City of Natchez proudly announces Natchez Together: A Festival of Ideas, a transformative and free event on April 5, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Natchez Convention Center. Dedicated to exploring the city’s rich civil rights history and bright future, this daylong festival will bring together historians, artists, civic leaders, and changemakers to discuss race relations, the influence of faith, the power of storytelling, and the critical role of emerging voices.

At the heart of this year’s festival is a celebration of the life and legacy of Natchez native Marjorie “Marge” Rushing Baroni (1924–1986), a fearless Civil Rights advocate whose courage continues to inspire future generations. The event will feature the unveiling of a trail marker at her family home, honoring her commitment to equality and justice. Marge’s children and grandchildren—many of whom are participating in the day’s panels—uphold her legacy of advocating for human dignity and racial harmony.

“This dedication recognizes our mother’s unwavering commitment to human dignity and her courageous efforts to challenge injustice,” says her son, Philip Baroni. “Our entire family is so grateful for this tribute.”

Natchez Mayor Dan M. Gibson echoes the importance of this moment, noting, “Honoring Marjorie Baroni’s work is a reminder of the power of individuals to create lasting change.”

Four Engaging Panels

1. Race Relations in the Past in Natchez
   Moderated by Rev. John Scott, Jr., this panel includes community leaders who witnessed and shaped the Civil Rights era.
2. Spiritual Influences on Race Then and Now
   Moderated by Philip Baroni, participants from diverse faith traditions will reflect on the moral imperative of justice.
3. Storytelling through the Arts
   Led by Luis Mirón, this panel explores how art, music, and literature intersect with history and social change.
4. Voices of the Future
   Moderated by Elise Baroni, this session highlights young leaders who are committed to making Natchez a more inclusive community.

Notable Panelists and Speakers

• Philip Baroni – Son of Marjorie Baroni, historian of his family’s activism.
• Rose Ann Baroni Mirón – Arts advocate and former university administrator, continuing her mother’s civil rights work.
• Elise Baroni – Granddaughter of Marjorie Baroni, a public defender focused on justice for vulnerable communities.
• Devi Mirón Murphy – Granddaughter, a Tulane faculty member and child psychologist active in antiracism efforts.
• Damian Baroni – Grandson, a former U.S. Marine pursuing artistic endeavors.
• Annalisa Mirón – Granddaughter, a seasoned public defender for marginalized groups.
• Dr. Lamar Braxton, Sr. (1934–2025) – A late trailblazer in education and Civil Rights, remembered for community improvements.
• Tony Byrne – Former Mayor of Natchez who worked alongside Civil Rights leaders.
• Valencia Hall – Current Alderwoman for Ward 1, event co-chair, champion of justice and human rights.
• Most Reverend Joseph R. Kopacz, D.D. – Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Jackson, social justice advocate.
• Reverend Joan Gandy – Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, focusing on reconciliation.
• Beau Bumgardner – President of Temple B’Nai Israel, dedicated to cultural unity.
• Reverend Clifton Marvel – Spiritual leader in local Baptist churches, emphasizing faith and empowerment.
• Luis Mirón – Educator and activist inspired by Marge Baroni’s legacy.
• YZ Ealey – Renowned Blues musician and cultural icon of the Mississippi Delta.
• Stanley Nelson – Pulitzer Prize finalist investigating Civil Rights-era cold cases.
• Josie Camper – Co-founder of NAPAC, dedicated to preserving African American culture in Natchez.
• Chelsea Hall – Advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and community progress.
• Robbie Cade-Furdge – Entrepreneur and pastor committed to local business development and social engagement.
• Lamar Braxton, Jr. – Engineer and community facilitator encouraging interracial dialogue.

“We are excited to welcome a diverse group of speakers and attendees to engage in meaningful conversations about equality, unity, and progress,” says Alderwoman Valencia Hall, who co-chairs the symposium alongside the Baroni family.

Registration Information

Admission is free, and walk-ins are welcome. To help organizers plan, please register at:
www.natcheztogether.onenatchez.com

Additional Details

• For more information, contact Alderwoman Valencia Hall at vhall@natchez.ms.us.
• Explore local attractions, events, and lodging options at www.visitnatchez.org.
• The event takes place on April 5, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Natchez Convention Center.

Join the conversation, celebrate a legacy of courage, and be part of charting Natchez’s future at Natchez Together: A Festival of Ideas.