2017 Mississippi Bicentennial Celebration Plans to Be Unveiled At Statehood Day Event
Jackson, Mississippi (December 4, 2013) The Mississippi Bicentennial Celebration Commission will unveil its plans for the historic celebration of the 200th event. The program and press conference, also marking the 196th entrance into the Union, will feature guest speakers including Lt. Governor Tate Reeves, Speaker Philip Gunn, MDAH executive director H.T. Holmes, and Malcolm White, MDA director of tourism. The event will be held at noon on Tuesday, December 10, at the Old Capitol Museum. A reception will follow.
Lt. Governor Tate Reeves said, “This is a wonderful opportunity to honor the people and places that represent the heart of our state and to reflect on our rich heritage, unparalleled history, and numerous accomplishments. Mississippi has much to be proud of since the first statehood convention was held at Jefferson College 200 years ago. What better way to showcase our state’s diverse population and unique culture than with this historic celebration of the birth of our great state.”
Though Governor Bryant is unable to be in attendance, he offered this statement in support of the day’s events, “This is a great day as we move forward in celebrating our statehood and reflect on all that makes Mississippi a truly special place. This celebration will allow us to remember those who have gone before us and paved a way to a better Mississippi and nation.”
Mississippi Department of Archives and History director H.T. Holmes said,“The most significant bricks and mortar project the state will undertake to mark the bicentennial is construction of the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. Opening in December 2017, the museums will bring Mississippians together to celebrate our rich culture, explore our shared past, and meet the opportunities and challenges of our future. I can think of no better way for us to launch our next century of statehood.”
Though specific plans for the actual Bicentennial celebration will continue to evolve and unfold in the years ahead an overview of the plan will be offered. “The Bicentennial celebration for Mississippi in 2017 should be on everyone’s calendars,” said Speaker of the House Philip Gunn.
“Various events held throughout the State during 2017 will provide Mississippians of all ages with multiple opportunities to learn more about the many histories that comprise our state, the people, the food, the music, the art. I’m looking forward to helping commemorate Mississippi becoming a state 200 years ago and encourage you to do so, too.”
For more information about the Mississippi Bicentennial contact Craig Ray with the Talon Group @ (601-954-8082).
