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The first official state-sponsored Civil Rights Museum opened on Saturday and U.S. President Donald Trump attending and delivered a speech at the opening.
Trump's arrival was met with protesters outside the museum, boycotting the president's visit.
Heading to the great state of Mississippi at the invitation of their popular and respected Governor, @PhilBryantMS. Look forward to seeing the new Civil Rights Museum!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 9, 2017
Congressman John Lewis fought for civil rights in the 1960's and stated he would not attend the opening if President Trump was attending.
President Trump’s attendance and his hurtful policies are an insult to the people portrayed in this civil rights museum. After President Trump departs, we encourage all Mississippians and Americans to visit this historic civil rights museum. https://t.co/cXo11eGHZw
— John Lewis (@repjohnlewis) December 8, 2017
“After careful consideration and conversations with church leaders, elected officials, civil rights activists, and many citizens of our congressional districts, we have decided not to attend or participate in the opening of the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum," stated Congressman John Lewis.
Lewis is known as one of the "Big Six" leaders of groups who helped organize the 1963 March on Washington.
Lewis said that Trump shouldn't attend because of his list of "disparaging comments"about women, people with disabilities, immigrants and his response to many players in the National Football League.
Don't Speak about "Civil Rights," PROTECT CIVIL RIGHTS!#CivilRightsMuseum https://t.co/f6cktPFwGG
— NAACP (@NAACP) December 9, 2017
The Mayor of Jackson, Mississippi, Chokwe A. Lumumb said he will not share a stage with the US President.
On Saturday morning, members of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), held a press conference in Jackson, Mississippi without Trump and recognized those who had dedicated their lives to fighting for civil rights.
“We take this stand out of respect for our heroes and ancestors who, often at the cost of their lives, paved the way for the ending of segregation and racial discrimination in Mississippi,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO.
Communications for the US Administration, Sarah Huckabee has stated that event will bring the country together.