In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Selma-to-Montgomery Voting Rights March, the city of Montgomery and Montgomery City-County Public Library System (MCCPL) will partner with local businesses and community leaders to host the Five Days to Freedom Festival March 21 beginning at 10 a.m. at the Rufus A. Lewis Regional Library, 3095 Mobile Highway.

WHAT: Five Days to Freedom Festival

WHEN: March 21 from 10 a.m. – until

WHERE: Rufus A. Lewis Regional Library, 3095 Mobile Highway, Montgomery, Ala.

The Five Days to Freedom Festival will feature performances by Toia Jones, local vocalist Michael McDonald and the Steppers Choice, while providing a platform for the community -- especially Montgomery's youth -- to learn about the history of the march and the pivotal role Alabama played in securing voting rights for all citizens. In addition, various vendors will offer food, fun and information on healthy lifestyles for attendees. Special appearances by Mickey & Minnie Mouse, Chuck E. Cheese and Big Mo will be a highlight of the festival for Montgomery's youth.

Prior to the festival, Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange, Montgomery County Commission Chairperson Elton Dean and MCCPL Library Board President Julia Henig will unveil the award-winning murals painted by Montgomery students depicting the marchers. WVAS-FM 90.7 FM and TLBN: Tracy Larkin Broadcast Network will broadcast live from the festival. Event attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs and service animals only. For additional information, please visit www.mccpl.lib.al.us.

Nestled along the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail (NHT), the Lewis Regional Library was named for Rufus A. Lewis, the “Father” of the central Alabama voting rights movement and founder of the Alabama Democratic Conference.  Instrumental as a community organizer in the civil rights movement, Lewis attended the signing ceremony of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

For more information, please contact Glenda Walker at (334) 240-4848.