Northeast to host Civil Rights icon Hezekiah Watkins for Black History Month lecture

Watkins was one of the youngest Freedom Riders at 13 years old

by Michael H. Miller

BOONEVILLE, Miss. -- (02/11/2025) — Northeast Mississippi Community College's (NEMCC) Cultural Arts Committee will welcome one of the youngest Freedom Riders, Hezekiah Watkins, as the featured speaker for its Black History Month lecture on February 24 at 1 p.m. in the Hines Hall Auditorium.

Watkins, a Jackson native, is a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement and currently works at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson.

At just 13 years old, Watkins became the youngest Freedom Rider when he was arrested during the Civil Rights Movement.

Watkins' arrest took place in Jackson's Greyhound bus station, an event that would alter the trajectory of his life.

At such a young age, Watkins found himself at the notorious Mississippi State prison otherwise known as Parchman, becoming part of a pivotal moment in the fight for racial equality in the United States.

Watkins' journey into activism began unexpectedly.

Growing up in a quiet Jackson neighborhood, he was unaware of the systemic racism and bigotry prevalent in the 1960s. That changed when he saw news footage of the Birmingham Campaign, witnessing the brutal reality of the Civil Rights struggle for the first time.

Inspired by what he saw, Watkins sought to learn more, which ultimately led him to the Greyhound bus station in Jackson, where Freedom Riders were protesting segregated bus terminals.

Watkins' arrest that day marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to Civil Rights.

Now, as an advocate and educator, Watkins shares his story with audiences to inspire a deeper understanding of the Civil Rights Movement and its ongoing impact.

Watkins' lecture will offer participants a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about the struggles and triumphs of a young boy who became a symbol of resilience and change.