Gibbs‑Green Plaza: A Living Memorial to Jackson State’s Tragedy and Legacy
Background:
Gibbs‑Green Plaza, located on the campus of Jackson State University (JSU), is a solemn reminder of one of the most tragic events in the university’s history—the 1970 Jackson State shootings. The plaza commemorates the lives lost and the larger context of racial tension, civil rights struggles, and student activism during that era.
On May 14–15, 1970, a violent confrontation between students protesting against the Vietnam War and racial injustice and law enforcement marked a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. The shooting incident occurred in the early hours of May 15, when police opened fire on students protesting at Alexander Hall, a women’s dormitory, along with the surrounding areas. Over 140 shotgun rounds were fired into the dormitory and campus grounds, a decision later condemned as “unreasonable and unjustified.”
The gunfire killed two individuals: Phillip Lafayette Gibbs, a 21‑year‑old JSU student, and James Earl Green, a 17‑year‑old high school student who was merely passing by. Several others were injured, but the shooters were never held accountable.
At the time, the shooting occurred just 11 days after the Kent State shootings, which sparked national outrage. While Kent State received more media attention, Jackson State highlighted the systemic racism Black students faced, particularly in the South.
Impact and Aftermath:
Although overshadowed by Kent State, the Jackson State shootings galvanized Black student activism. Protests and vigils honored the fallen, underscoring systemic violence against Black students.
Each year, the Gibbs‑Green Plaza hosts a memorial ceremony, including a wreath‑laying organized by the Margaret Walker Center, ensuring their legacy is never forgotten.
The Plaza as a Memorial:
Stretching along John R. Lynch Street from Alexander Hall to University Green, Gibbs‑Green Plaza is both a daily thoroughfare and a place of reflection. A permanent monument at Alexander Hall’s entrance honors Gibbs and Green.
The walls of Alexander Hall still bear visible bullet holes—a powerful symbol of resilience. Visitors pause to reflect on the sacrifices made in the fight for equality.
A Place for Ongoing Activism:
Gibbs‑Green Plaza remains a vibrant site for student protests and social justice events, continuing the legacy of resilience and advocacy born from the 1970 tragedy.
Students gather here to organize campaigns on racial equity, police violence, and modern civil rights, keeping the plaza a living symbol of resistance.
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