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Mean Green of Mississippi Valley State University finally got to perform at Trump's inauguration ceremony on January 20 after their GoFundMe was able to raise over $300k.
Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi, revealed on December 26, 2024, that it had received an invitation to take part in the parade and promptly started raising funds to support the endeavor.
A GoFundMe campaign launched shortly after accumulated over $300,000 as of January 17, 2025. The university estimated the total expenses for the trip, including transportation, lodging, food, and equipment, to amount to $350,000.
In a statement, Mississippi Valley State University's President Dr. Jerryl Briggs said:
"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. This participation allows students to engage in the peaceful transition of power and gain global exposure while celebrating the university's 75th anniversary,"
Reactions to the participation of Mississippi Valley State University band in Trump's parade
Reactions to the Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) band’s decision to perform at the inauguration have been mixed, with university officials praising the opportunity as a historic moment while others argue it contradicts the mission and values of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Governor of Mississippi, Tate Reeves had posted a link to the GoFundMe and wrote:
"Looking forward to seeing @MVSUDEVILS ’ Mean Green Marching Machine represent our state in@realDonaldTrump’s inaugural parade!"
As per the Mississippi Free Press Journal, critics have pointed out the controversy of accepting an invitation from President Trump, citing his policies to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and his opposition to programs he claims promote 'Critical Race Theory, gender ideology, or other inappropriate content.'
Civil rights leader Bishop Talbert Swan, II, president of the Greater Springfield NAACP in Massachusetts, expressed his disapproval in an open letter, emphasizing the contradiction between the band’s participation and the university’s history of activism.
Swan highlighted Mississippi Valley State University’s legacy of student-led boycotts in the 1960s demanding a more inclusive curriculum and resources reflective of Black history. He wrote:
“By choosing to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration, the university undermines its historical commitment to honoring Black contributions and perspectives,”
In addition to the ethical debate, concerns have been raised about the financial burden of the trip, reported the Mississippi Free Press Journal. While a GoFundMe campaign for the band has raised over $300,000, critics note that the band faces pressing needs, including acquiring new instruments, uniforms, and scholarships.
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The fundraiser’s description mentions that funds will also support these essential resources alongside the inauguration trip. Some alumni have questioned why the band must crowd-fund for its participation when it has long-term development needs.
The Mississippi Valley State University Alumni Association has also faced scrutiny for its lack of direct financial support for the band’s trip, especially in contrast to its active fundraising for the university choir’s recent participation in an international competition in Italy.
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