Honoring the 60th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March
Advance the Dream: Celebrate the Legacy and Continue the Mission
Today, we honor the 60th anniversary of the historic Selma to Montgomery March, a defining moment in the civil rights movement and a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who fought for racial and social justice. This moment in history reminds us that the march for equality and equity isn’t over—it’s ongoing, and each of us has a role to play.
As part of our Reality Health Games series, The Force for Health® Network proudly presents our Advance the Dream channel: a dynamic online community celebrating the heroes and legacy makers who have paved the way for civil rights, health equity, and social justice. Through education, media, tools, and challenges, Advance the Dream inspires the next generation of changemakers to carry the torch.
The Selma March: A Legacy of Courage and Impact
The Selma to Montgomery March in 1965 became one of the most pivotal demonstrations for voting rights. As we reflect on its significance, let’s examine three key takeaways from this historic moment:
- Challenging Discrimination
This march courageously shone a spotlight on the discriminatory practices that disenfranchised black voters in the South. Over 3,000 participants faced violent opposition from law enforcement, an act of bravery that captured national and global attention. - A Turning Point in Civil Rights History
The Selma March demonstrated that the fight for equality was far from over, even after the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The brutality witnessed on “Bloody Sunday” generated public outrage, uniting Americans across racial and social lines in the pursuit of justice. - The Passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965
The marchers’ resolve led to the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, outlawing discriminatory voting practices and reinforcing the principle that democracy should serve all citizens equitably.
Advance the Dream: Learn It. Live It. Share It.
This year, we’re keeping the spirit of Selma alive through our Advance the Dream initiatives, empowering individuals to honor the legacy of civil rights heroes while contributing to ongoing progress.
1. Learn It
Dive deep into this moment in history by enrolling in our MLK Basics Badge program—available for free in the Force for Health Academy. Explore impactful lessons, such as the Selma to Montgomery March, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. These modules are designed to educate and inspire, providing valuable insights into the struggle—and victories—of the civil rights era.
2. Live It
Become part of the legacy by joining our LIVE It! Virtual 54-Mile Challenge through the Force for Health® Virtual Wellness Club. Symbolically retrace the courageous steps of those who marched from Selma to Montgomery, promoting both your personal health and your commitment to justice. As part of this journey, we invite you to sign up as a 360° Ambassador, making your mark in the Reality Health Games and amplifying the movement for health and equity.
3. Share It
In the spirit of Selma, we encourage you to Share It. Use the Advance the Dream community to inspire others through stories, challenges, and calls to action. Complete your profile by answering what Advance the Dream means to you. Share the lessons, takeaways, and values of the civil rights movement with your family, friends, and social networks. Together, we can ensure the march for equality continues.
Why It Matters: A Call to Action
The anniversary of the Selma March is more than a moment of reflection—it’s a call to action. The ideals championed by the marchers in Selma remain incredibly relevant today as we face new challenges in the fight for equity, justice, and access to opportunity. Whether we’re combating voter suppression, addressing health disparities, or promoting social justice, every step we take helps advance the dream of a just and equitable future.
Join us this year for free, by downloading our 360° Force for Health Academy app, or as a 360° Ambassador for $49/year, to honor this milestone with purpose. Be a part of our Advance the Dream movement by committing to Learn It. Live It. Share It. Together, we’ll celebrate the past while building a healthier and more equitable future.
