The Mississippi Valley State University band is scheduled to perform at the inauguration of Donald Trump, which has sparked outrage

Admired HBCU Mississippi Valley State University has accepted an invitation to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration.

On January 20, 2025, the “Mean Green Marching Machine” will take part in the 60th Presidential Inauguration Parade for Donald Trump, who will commence his second term as the 47th President of the United States.

The university celebrated this opportunity as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” for its students in a social media announcement. Dr. Jerryl Briggs, president of Mississippi Valley State, expressed his satisfaction by stating, “This is not only a moment of pride for our university but for the entire state of Mississippi.” He emphasized the performance as an opportunity to exhibit the band’s cultural legacy and motivate aspiring community leaders.

Nevertheless, the decision has elicited a strong response from a significant number of admirers and activists. Bishop Talbert Swan was among the numerous individuals who expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision, describing it as “a disgraceful betrayal” of the school’s legacy.

The 250-member band is currently engaged in fundraising efforts to secure $350,000 to cover the costs of travel, accommodations, meals, and equipment transportation. The band’s extensive performance history, which encompasses appearances at NBA games and prestigious ceremonies such as the Rose Bowl and New Orleans Mardi Gras, is underscored by a GoFundMe page.

This opportunity is a testament to the legacy of excellence that Mississippi Valley State has established. The band was the first HBCU to march in the Tournament of Roses Parade in 1965 and perform at President Nixon’s inauguration in 1968, making history. They are currently following Talladega College’s “Great Tornado Marching Band,” which performed at Trump’s 2017 inauguration and raised $667,000 in support.