ESCANABA — Bettie Mae Fikes, a distinguished civil rights activist and celebrated singer, will be speaking and performing at the Besse Center Auditorium on Wednesday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Fikes, often referred to as the “Voice of Selma,” played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement by participating in numerous protests and marches alongside iconic figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis. Her powerful voice and unwavering commitment to justice have left an indelible mark on American History.

Fikes will share her inspiring journey, recounting experiences during the tumultuous years of the Civil Rights Movement and offering insights into the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of historic events and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by those fighting for civil rights.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Bettie Mae Fikes to Bay College and to provide our community with the opportunity to hear from such a distinguished figure in the Civil Rights Movement,” says Dr. Nerita Hughes, President of Bay College. “Her courage, resilience, and dedication to justice serves as an inspiration to us all, and we are honored to host her at our campus.”

This event will take place at the Besse Center Auditorium, located on the Escanaba Bay College Campus. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and seating will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information, contact Bay College at (906)-217-4010.