DIY VIRAL
Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is gaining attention after accepting an invitation to participate in Trump's upcoming inaugural parade on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 20, 2025.
The university's iconic Mean Green Marching Machine plans to represent the HBCU in Washington, D.C., but their decision has social media users wondering if it's a moment of pride or loyalty out of place, especially amid the group asking for donations to help cover the $350,000 needed to be made.
Source: Justin Ford/Getty
An invitation to controversy
Founded in 1946, MVSU has a history of breaking barriers as an HBCU, but this latest step draws more backlash than applause. According to Revolt, the group launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the trip, covering travel expenses from Itta Bena, Mississippi, to Washington, DC, as well as food, lodging and transportation of materials. The GoFundMe is asking for $70,000, and on
As of today, Monday, December 30, the GoFundMe has reached over $50,000.
According to WLBT, “The band has performed on several stages, including NBA games, the Rose Bowl Parade, New Orleans Mardi Gras parades, and the National Showband Battle of the Bands.”
The school presented the parade invitation as a continuation of its historic legacy, referencing past accomplishments such as being the first HBCU group to march in the Tournament of Roses parade in 1965 and performing in the inaugural parade of President Richard Nixon in 1969.
The University released a statement saying:
“This historic invitation highlights the group’s legacy of excellence and cultural significance, showcasing the university and Mississippi’s rich heritage on a global scale.”
But even as MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs beams with pride, calling it “an opportunity to showcase our heritage, celebrate our culture and invest in the future leaders of our community,” others see a tone-deaf approach for an institution anchored in black excellence.
It's a “no” on social networks
Even though MVSU sees this as an opportunity to make history, the Internet isn't having it. Backlash on social media was swift, with users accusing the school of aligning itself with Trump, a president infamous for his divisive policies.
According to Revolt, Critics have pointed to Trump's mass expulsion plans and his desire to dismantle the Department of Education, both of which disproportionately impact black and brown communities.
One X user tweeted: “MLK fought for equality, and now an HBCU is celebrating the man who dismantled our progress? Make sense of this! Another called the move “disrespectful,” adding, “Not on MLK Day.” That's not it, Valley.
On X, the reaction continued.
This reaction echoes public sentiment during Trump's first inauguration in 2017, when celebrities like Celine Dion, George Lopez and Elton John declined invitations to perform.
While the Mean Green Marching Machine may not have the ability to say “no thanks,” many believe the administration should have refused on their behalf.
A heritage worth preserving or selling?
Those defending the decision are focused on honoring the band's legacy and giving students a rare opportunity to showcase their talent on the national stage. However, critics say this is not the way to uplift the HBCU community, especially on a day meant to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s fight for justice and equality.
How do we honor Black history while navigating the complexities of modern politics?
HBCUs like MVSU play a crucial role in preserving black culture. Dr. King believed in peace among all people and cultures, which is why the decision to perform for Trump doesn't seem that far from the dream. Trump is highly disliked for many reasons, so the negative reaction is not surprising.
Time will tell whether the Mean Green Marching Machine's decision to march will spark applause or more discord online. What is certain is that social networks will still have a lot to say before inauguration day.
DIY VIRAL
