Julius Lester was teaching guitar and performing as a folk singer in New York City when he decided to go to Mississippi during Freedom Summer. Lester tells of his role in energizing the people gathered at those meetings and setting the stage for the organizers who called the crowds to action. He also reflects on the ever-present danger for participants in Freedom Summer.
Watch more Freedom Summer @ 50
Freedom Summer @ 50: The Librarian
Freedom Summer @ 50: The Publisher
Freedom Summer @ 50: The Activist
Freedom Summer @ 50: The Foor Soldier
Freedom Summer @ 50: The Voter
Freedom Summer @ 50: The Teacher
Freedom Summer @ 50: The Photographer
Freedom Summer @ 50: The Preservationist