February 21, 2026
Joanne Bland established Foot Troopers Park to protect the historical past of civil rights and promote civic engagement.
Civil rights activist Joanne Bland, one of many Civil Rights Motion’s youngest activists died Feb. 19 on the age of 72.
Bland was a keeper of historical past as one of many youngest members within the historic 1965 Selma voting rights marches. Bland was affectionately known as the “daughter of Selma.” Her dying was introduced on the official Foot Troopers Park Fb web page.
“It’s with profound unhappiness and heavy hearts that the household of Ms. Joanne Bland proclaims her passing,” Bland’s household mentioned in an announcement. “Ms. Bland departed this life surrounded by love, forsaking a legacy of energy, grace, and unwavering dedication to her household and group.
Ms. Bland was a lady of exceptional character whose presence touched numerous lives. Her kindness, knowledge, and enduring spirit will endlessly stay within the hearts of all who knew her. She was a pillar of religion, resilience, and compassion, and her influence will proceed to be felt for generations to return.”
In accordance with Bland, in March 1965. By age 11, she had been arrested no less than 13 occasions on account of her activism. In 1989, Bland co-founded the Nationwide Voting Rights Museum and Institute in Selma. She would go on to set up Foot Troopers Park. The undertaking served to protect the historical past of civil rights and educate guests concerning the tumultuous battles waged to attain civil rights. She additionally led academic excursions via her group, Journeys for the Soul, to spotlight Selma’s integral position in achieving civil rights.
Bland’s life drew recognition from native leaders. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, whose district contains Selma, mentioned in an announcement to WAKA 8.
“I’m heartbroken to be taught of the passing of Ms. Joanne Bland — a freedom fighter and daughter of Selma, Alabama. It was Foot Troopers like JoAnn who put their lives and freedom on the road for the appropriate of all People to vote.” Sewell mentioned.
Selma Mayor Johnny Moss III additionally paid tribute, saying Bland carried “the spirit of Selma with energy, fact and unwavering braveness,” and that town had “misplaced one in every of its best daughters.”
Bland’s activism prolonged past her hometown. She spoke extensively on the significance civic engagement. Funeral particulars will likely be launched at a later date.
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