3rd Annual South Jackson Proud Parade (Saturday, April 9, 2022)

Food…
Fun…
Fellowship…

The Association of South Jackson Neighborhoods partnered with local and state stakeholders to kick-off Saturday with a plethora of activities for our community. It was only a birds-eye view captured by the news media of the festivities.

Our day began with our theme & colors to showcase “Red, Blue, and Yellow—Super Heroes saving South Jackson.” Super He/Shero 5K Walk/Run was coordinated by Mrs. Cynthia Thompson. Runners/walkers dressed up in their capes and were ready to take on the challenge of saving students, families, and organizations to stomp out obesity. There was on-site registration which took place at 6:00 a.m. The race took off promptly at 7:00 a.m. There were 25 participants who finished strong by receiving medals and t-shirts.

9:00 a.m. “Just like music…” Onlookers & residents of the city lined their chairs alongside McDowell Rd. to hear the sounds of bands marching, cheerleaders cheering, car clubs showing off their rides, and elected officials waving/throwing candy to the children. We were elated to have Forest Hill High School, Lanier High School, Provine High School, Wingfield High School, Callaway High School and Jim Hill High to grace us with dynamic performances, alongside two middle schools Whitten & Powell Middle Schools. After the bands strutted and marched through the parade, they ended with a mini-showcase for fans/audience in front of Cardozo Middle School. The organization prides itself in being supportive of our youth in the community. Several Jackson high school Bands received 100.00 dollars from ASJN as a donation on April 9, 2022. They are Callaway High School, Jim Hill High School, Provine High School, Wingfield High School, Forest Hill High School, Lanier High School, and Powell Middle School Bands.

Festival equals fun!!! “...what will I eat or where will I shop?” There were 35 vendors on site to allow visitors at the festival to patronize their businesses. Each vendor, an entrepreneur hand created/crafted their products for people to visibly see by purchasing. Food trucks lined the circle to showcase their variety of delicious appetizers and entrees with a twist. We even had New Jerusalem Church there to give away free children & adult clothing. Healthcare vendors were onsite to provide screenings and other educational information for seniors, early enrollment updates, and vaccinations. Kids Zone attracted children with space jumps, slides, and basketball. State Treasurer came to see “who has unclaimed money?” Also, they shared insightful information on what there office offers and does for the State of Mississippi.

Live performances for the audience included the 601Live Band, DJ Randy “Wildman” Brown & DJ Sinatra keeping families groovy. Raffle/giveaways were awarded to the following participants: Patrease Edwards, Caleb Edwards, Debbie Floyd, & Cedric Hampton. They received items that were given by parade donors.

The ultimate goal of the event was showcasing collectiveness & unity in our community by transforming the narrative of an unsafe South Jackson. People mingled with one another, shared ideas, dance, ate, patronize, and played all in one location with not one incident or act of violence. We want to continue promoting family friendly events where it’s “1 Stop Shop.”

The Association of South Jackson appreciates all sponsors, vendors, volunteers, parade participants, walkers/runners, committee members, & community for your unwavering support!