Staff Reports
The Mean Green Marching Machine of Mississippi Valley State University recently found itself under fire from the left for daring to perform at President elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. But while the social media mob grinds its gears, this historically Black college is earning a surprising amount of support from Mississippi Republicans. In fact, Governor Tate Reeves and the Mississippi Republican Party have jumped into action, rallying supporters to contribute to the band’s GoFundMe, which aims to raise a whopping $350,000 for the prestigious trip to Washington, D.C.
Reeves took to X, enthusiastically expressing his excitement about the band’s role in the upcoming inaugural parade. His enthusiasm, however, has not been shared by all, as countless Twitter warriors voiced their outrage over the university’s decision. Certain individuals have expressed bewilderment, accusing the band members of betrayal and aligning themselves with a “blatant racist.” This seems to be a classic case of liberals attempting to control the narrative by shaming a group of students for stepping out of line with their rigid ideology.
Trump foes steamed as HBCU marching band raises funds to play at inaugural https://t.co/uXAqJAtIVJ
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) January 7, 2025
Bishop Talbert Swan, a notable figure in the NAACP, labeled the school’s participation as a “disgraceful betrayal” of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. The irony, of course, is that the very same people who extol the virtues of individual accomplishment and representation are now trying to stifle a group that has achieved a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Critics may squawk about how the inauguration is taking place on MLK Day, but it seems they’ve missed the point entirely: This is about showcasing talent and hard work, not aligning with political agendas.
It’s not just the left that’s chafing at the band’s decision. Media outlets like HipHopWired belabored the point that the band should reject the opportunity, framing it as a betrayal of “Black excellence.” The hypocrisy here is astounding; they suggest that standing on a grand stage to showcase talent is somehow beneath the band. On the contrary, it is these same detractors that risk painting themselves as the real barrier to progress when they deride students for striving to achieve their dreams.
On the bright side, some commentators—in a rare moment of clarity—have defended the band, articulating that this is about a tremendous opportunity for the students rather than an endorsement of any politician. Musicians and political commentators assert that the criticism is rooted in a kind of toxic racism from those who claim to champion the very students they are attempting to intimidate into submission. No one should be defined solely by their skin color or political affiliation; instead, they should have the freedom to seize opportunities without the fear of being labeled a sellout.
The band’s legacy is rich, having broken barriers in the past by marching in prestigious events like the Tournament of Roses Parade and performing at Richard Nixon’s inauguration. Under the leadership of President Jerryl Briggs, MVSU is not only highlighting their university’s accomplishments but celebrating their culture and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow—no matter what the Twitter-types may say. That GoFundMe goal may be ambitious, but there’s little doubt that the band will reach it, and all of Mississippi will swell with pride when its talented students take the national stage.
