Spirituality, Family Define Million Man March, Unifest Reboot

September 10, 2025

The Reverend Willie Wilson and community leaders announced the 30th Anniversary Million Man March and revival of Unifest, to be held October 16-18 in Washington D.C., during a press conference at Union Temple Baptist Church. The events aim to bring the community together during a challenging time as D.C. faces federal troop presence in civilian areas until November 30. Wilson emphasized that the programming will offer spirituality, strength, and empowerment for Black people across the District and beyond, with supporting events beginning September 22.

Who is affected

Black residents of Washington D.C. and surrounding areas
Washingtonians dealing with federal officer surge and military presence
Community members concerned about Black-on-Black crime and homicides
Faith communities across all eight of D.C.'s wards
Baltimore residents involved in the Local Organizing Committee
Youth, women, and Black families specifically mentioned as focus groups
The Piscataway Indian Nation, who will participate in a prayer vigil
Residents of other cities hosting similar commemorative events nationwide

What action is being taken

Organizing the 30th Anniversary Million Man March and revival of Unifest for October 16-18
Conducting Monday Morning Prayer Calls beginning September 22
Planning a Historic Landmark Torch Run on October 13 through key Anacostia locations
Arranging a Unity Prayer Breakfast in Baltimore, Lantern Peace Walk, and Spiritual Service on October 16
Coordinating a Day of Atonement and Reconciliation Fast & Prayer on October 17
Organizing "Revive the Spirit of the Million Man March & Beloved Unifest" event on October 18
Building collaboration between multiple supporting organizations including Prince Hall Grand Lodge, East River Family Strengthening Collaborative, and others

Why it matters

The events aim to provide unity and community spirit during a time when "people's spirit is low" due to military presence in D.C.
Organizers hope the march will help decrease Black-on-Black crime and homicide in the community
The commemorations offer a sense of spirituality, strength, and empowerment for Black people
The events represent a call to action for recommitment to the values and principles of the original Million Man March
The activities will be chronicled for future generations as important historical events
The programming addresses the challenges facing D.C., particularly the federal surge of troops in civilian areas
The events highlight the history of the Anacostia community and bring focus to areas that organizers feel are "under attack"

What's next

Monday Morning Prayer Calls will begin September 22 and continue on September 29, October 6, and October 13
Special Sunday Prayers for the City will take place on October 12 from 9am-2pm
The Historic Landmark Torch Run will occur on October 13
The main events will take place October 16-18, including the Unity Prayer Breakfast, Lantern Peace Walk, Spiritual Service, Day of Atonement, and revival celebration
Similar commemorative events will happen in other cities including New York City, Atlanta, Jackson, Detroit, and as far away as Nairobi, Kenya

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer