Join the MBC Bicycle Ride, Volunteer, Rally, or Explore Historic Sites

The 60th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March is a poignant reminder of the resilience, courage, and determination that shaped the civil rights movement. The Montgomery Bicycle Club (MBC) is hosting the 60th Anniversary Selma to Montgomery Bicycle Ride on February 22, 2025, offering a remarkable way to honor this historic event. 

STM: Unity

Here are four meaningful ways to participate and connect with the legacy of the 1965 march.

1. Participate in the Ride: Relive History on Two Wheels

Join the powerful 51-mile bicycle ride that retraces the historic route taken during the Selma to Montgomery March, a pivotal event in the civil rights movement that championed voting rights for all Americans. This significant journey begins at the emblematic Edmund Pettus Bridge, where countless brave foot soldiers crossed in 1965 and culminates at the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery.

In March 1965, the marchers faced harsh elements. Frigid weather plagued their path, with nearly daily rainfall and almost freezing temperatures. Those courageous individuals walked just over 10 miles daily, camping overnight at various designated sites along the route, strengthening their resolve and dedication to justice.

STM: the ride

To commemorate the 60th Anniversary of this monumental march, cyclists will follow the same historic path, traversing the Edmund Pettus Bridge and winding through the Alabama countryside. Participants will take on the challenge of pedaling the entire 51 miles in a single day, aware of the potential for cold, windy, and rainy weather reminiscent of the conditions faced by the original marchers.

This ride is more than just a physical challenge; it is an emotionally charged and reflective experience that honors the sacrifices made by those who fought for civil rights. As cyclists pedal together, they will channel the spirit of perseverance that characterized the marchers of 1965. Each turn of the pedals will serve as a tribute to their legacy and a reminder of the enduring power of collective action in pursuing justice and equality.

You are invited to join in on this meaningful journey, where personal endurance meets profound historical significance. Carry forward the torch of advocacy for voting rights and civil liberties.

STM: Reaching the finish line

2. Be an Advocate: Volunteer and Support the Event

Volunteers are essential to the success of this event, embodying the community spirit that characterized the original march. You can get involved in various ways, including assisting with logistics to ensure everything runs smoothly, providing refreshments to keep participants energized, and playing a crucial role in maintaining a safe environment for all riders. Your support is invaluable, and you have numerous opportunities to make a meaningful contribution that will help make this celebration memorable.

Reflecting on the historical context, in 1965, a diverse coalition of allies and advocates supported the marchers, supplying vital resources and encouragement that helped propel the movement forward. By volunteering your time and energy today, you can be part of a modern commemoration that honors that legacy. You can help preserve the unity and determination integral to the movement's success, ensuring that its principles continue to inspire future generations. Volunteer your time and pay tribute to this vital history while fostering cooperation and activism in our community.

STM: City of St. Jude

3. Rally the Riders: Cheer Them On from St. Jude to Dexter Avenue

As the cyclists journey from Selma to Montgomery, they will encounter several campsite stops designed to honor the historic locations from the 1965 marches. The initial rest stop is eight miles outside Selma, near the first 1965 campsite. This site is incredibly symbolic, representing a significant victory for the marchers, as their first attempts to reach Montgomery were stopped at the foot of the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Riders can reflect on the struggles faced during that pivotal moment in history.

The next rest stop will be located at the National Park Service's Lowndes County Interpretive Center, approximately 22 miles into the ride, between Selma and Montgomery. Riders are encouraged to take time to explore the Interpretive Center, which provides valuable insights into the civil rights movement, before continuing their journey to campsite three, the memorial dedicated to Viola Liuzzo, who was tragically murdered while participating in the movement.

Finally, as the cyclists enter the Montgomery city limits, they will ride past the City of St. Jude, the fourth campsite. This area holds deep historical significance, as it was a safe haven for marchers during the original protests. The final leg of the ride through Montgomery will take cyclists by The Rosa Parks Museum, a tribute to the woman whose brave actions sparked a revolution in the struggle for civil rights. The route will then lead them up Dexter Avenue, where they will pass by the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, the former congregation of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The ride will culminate at the Alabama State Capitol, marking the journey's finish line. As participants approach Dexter Avenue and the steps of the Capitol, they will experience the thrilling emotion of completing this ride, symbolizing resilience and determination.

STM: Almost at the finish line

You're invited to line the streets of Montgomery along the route, especially at St. Jude, to cheer on the cyclists as they pass this historic site. Your encouragement will echo the support that original marchers received in 1965 and will serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of community involvement. Your presence will inspire and energize the riders, reinforcing the significance of their trek. Become part of this remarkable celebration that connects the past with the present, illustrating the enduring power of collective encouragement and advocacy for justice and equality.

4. Take the Non-Cycling Tour: Experience Civil Rights History

For those who prefer not to cycle, MBC is offering a non-cycling tour. This guided experience includes key sites of the march, including the Edmund Pettus Bridge and the interpretive centers along the route. Listen and learn the stories of courage and resilience that defined the movement.

This tour reflects the commemoration ride's purpose by raising awareness and educating communities about injustice. By participating, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the journey, the people who walked it, and its lasting impact on civil rights in America.

Non-cycling tourist bus package includes breakfast, round-trip transportation from Montgomery to Selma, historic sightseeing stops, bus transportation back to Montgomery, and a post-ride meal.

2016 Selma to Montgomery Ride

The Selma to Montgomery Bicycle Ride is more than an event—it is a tribute to history, a celebration of progress, and a call to action. Whether you cycle, volunteer, rally, or explore through a guided tour, your involvement keeps the spirit of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery March alive.

Join the ride to honor the 60th Anniversary and ensure that the message of equality and justice continues to inspire future generations.