Mississippi Valley State University Band Sparks Controversy Over Trump Inauguration Performance
The Mississippi Valley State University band’s upcoming performance at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration has stirred up a heated debate within the historically black institution. The band, known as the Mean Green Fighting Machine, has been invited to participate in the 60th Presidential Inauguration Parade on January 20 in Washington, D.C.
Mississippi Valley State University, based in Itta Bena, Miss., made the announcement of the band’s invitation on December 26, 2024, and quickly launched a fundraising campaign. Within days, a GoFundMe page had raised over $300,000 towards the total trip cost of $350,000, which includes travel, accommodations, meals, and equipment.
University officials, including President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, have expressed pride in the opportunity for the band to showcase the legacy and culture of Mississippi and celebrate the university’s 75th anniversary on a national stage.
However, some have raised concerns about the band’s decision to participate in the inauguration, particularly in light of President Trump’s controversial policies and statements. Civil rights activist Bishop Talbert Swan II argued that the band’s involvement contradicts the university’s historical legacy of promoting Black contributions and perspectives.
Despite the controversy, the band’s participation in the inauguration has garnered support from top officials, alumni, and even Gov. Tate Reeves, who encouraged Mississippians to back the students’ efforts.
The Mississippi Valley State University band’s upcoming performance at the inauguration is part of a long tradition of HBCU bands participating in inaugural events, dating back to President Richard Nixon’s inauguration in 1969. Mississippi Valley State University’s band has a rich history of appearances at prestigious events, including being the first HBCU band to march in the Rose Bowl parade in 1965.
As the band prepares to represent their state and university on a national stage, the debate around their participation in the inauguration underscores the complex relationship between HBCUs and political events.