Medgar Wiley Evers (July 2, 1925 - June 12, 1963)

We, as men, owe it to our fellow man and to our children to stand firm and stand out for those things that we are entitled to. I count it a blessing from God that I am able to withstand ridicule and abuse because I am willing to take a stand for my fellow man though many show no appreciation for the work that we are trying to do in their behalf. But let it not be said in the final analysis when history will only record those glorious moments. And when your grandchildren will invariably ask: "Granddaddy, what role did you play in helping to make us free men and free women? Did you actively participate in the struggle or was your support only a moral one?" Certainly each person here, and man in particular, should be in a position to say, "I was active in the struggle for all phases for your unrestricted privileges as an American citizen."

Medgar Wiley Evers

February 28, 1960

Men's Day Message

Fremont AME Church

Miles, Mississippi