Turn Me Loose: The Unghosting of Medgar Evers
When people speak of the 1960s, more
than likely, the issue of civil rights becomes a
major topic of discussion. However, most
students today would only recognize the
names of only a handful of civil rights leaders
including Martin Luther King, Jr., W. E. B.
DuBois, and Rosa Parks. While each of these
key leaders played a significant role in the
struggle for equal rights for African
Americans, there were many more who fought
on the front lines. One of these front linemen
was Medgar Evers (1925-63), the first field
secretary for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
The Walk of Fame webpage from the National Park Service highlights the outstanding
work that Evers performed. Why do you think someone like Medgar Evers was so
important to the struggle?
While Evers was not the only martyr for the cause of black equality, he is regarded
as a hero in the state of Mississippi where he lived, worked, and eventually was
assassinated by shooter Byron De La Beckwith. In Turn Me Loose, Frank X Walker
chooses not to use the voice of Evers in his narrative, but rather he chooses to use the
voices of Beckwith, Myrlie Evers (wife), and others. The further you read into the
volume, the more you will find yourself standing in the streets of Mississippi alongside
Evers, shouting for the equality of all people. Walker’s narrative sheds light on the
bigotry and racism of those who fought wrongly
against blacks, but he also focuses in on the
humanity and bravery of African Americans during
these dangerous times.
Resources for teachers are available online at
NPS webpages such as a lesson plan entitled
“Names, Names, Names” which highlights some of
the important players in the fight for civil rights.
Select one name to explore and research. Explore
the website called “The Cost”. Select one of the
events associated with the Civil Rights Movement
to research and write about. Look at this site
called Historic Places. What is a place near you
that would be interesting to visit?
Image found at LIFE Magazine. More
funeral photos available.