Recognizing the Life of James Charles Evers

Floor Speech

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Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of James Charles Evers, who passed away on Wednesday, July 22, in Brandon, Mississippi, at age 97.

Charles Evers was born in Decatur, Mississippi, on September 11, 1922. He served in the Army in World War II and later Korea, however, his biggest fight was the fight against racism. Following in his brother's footsteps, civil rights activist Medgar Evers, Charles was a leader in the civil rights movement. His early exposure to racial violence fueled his passion for driving out racism in a Jim Crow Mississippi. He wrote an autobiography, ran a hotel, restaurant, cab stand, and funeral parlor, and would also become one of the first black radio disc jockeys of the state.

In the 1960s, Charles became the mayor of a mixed-raced town for 16 years, and he played a crucial role in black voter registration in Mississippi as well as the desegregation of a hospital.

His accomplishments and dedication to the black community would make Charles an inspiration to other aspiring black political leaders. When Charles decided to run for mayor in Fayette, more than 175 black men ran for office across the state. Charles's determination and refusal to quit would not go unnoticed, as he continued to fight for positions in higher offices and continued to inspire everyone he encountered.

Charles' legacy was and always will be an inspiration to all of us. He was the epitome of a leader, and his impact on the civil rights movement made history. His life demonstrated one of service, grace, and love for his family and community.

Left to cherish his memory are his ten children, three sisters, two brothers, as well as many other friends and extended family members.

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