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The Mean Green Marching Machine band of Mississippi Valley State University is all set to perform in the inaugural parade at the swearing-in of President-elect Donald Trump. The inauguration is scheduled on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, i.e. January 20, 2025. In order to participate in the parade, the HBCU's band is raising funds via a page on GoFundMe.
The university's band penned on their GoFundMe page that they are seeking funds for all the resources they need for their performance. They wrote,
"The Mean Green Marching Machine Band of Mississippi Valley State University is seeking funds to travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in the Inaugural Parade. The band is seeking funds to acquire instruments, and uniforms, provide scholarships, and get other essential resources for its continued development."
They are also improving the band hall for the 250-member band's practice.
The Mean Green Marching Machine band also performed on various occasions, including the Rose Bowl Parade, NBA games, the National Showband Battle of the Bands, New Orleans Mardi Gras parades, and more.
"Throughout our history, we have succeeded in ensuring that over half of our students who enroll at the University also graduate," the band added.
At the time of writing, on January 2, 2025, the band has raised over $204,000 out of its target of $240,000.
Mississippi Valley State University scripts history with its invitation to the Inaugural ceremony
Mississippi Valley State University is seemingly elated with the invitation. On their university's page, they mentioned that the band is continuing its legacy of being culturally significant.
"This historic invitation highlights the band's legacy of excellence and cultural significance, showcasing the university and Mississippi's rich heritage globally. This invitation continues MVSU's tradition of groundbreaking national performances," read the university's website.
Dr Jerryl Briggs, the university's president, also noted how the invitation is a moment of pride for the HBCU.
"This is not just a moment of pride for our university but for the entire state of Mississippi. It is an opportunity to showcase our legacy, celebrate our culture, and invest in the future leaders of our community," Briggs said.
While the university's band is allegedly practicing rigorously for their performance, some netizens are asking them to withdraw their name from the parade.
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One suggested that the university must not celebrate "a man that will do everything in his power to ruin HBCUs" hinting at Donald Trump.
Many others asked the Mean Green Marching Machine band to refuse to march in the parade.
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