News

Aug 20, 2023

Local civil rights trailblazer, Shirlene Mercer, has passed.

Shirlene Mercer, the last living member of the civil rights "Freshman Four" group, has died, according to the City of Jackson. A student at Lane College during the height of the Civil Rights Movement

Shirlene Mercer, the last living member of the civil rights "Freshman Four" group, has died, according to the City of Jackson.

A student at Lane College during the height of the Civil Rights Movement in the early 1960s, Mercer, along with fellow Lane students Kimmie Davis, Ernest Brooks Sr., and Wesley McClure, made history with their participation in sit-in protests at the "whites only" lunch counter in challenge of segregation.

A trailblazer for change, her passion for equality and courage to lead the fight for freedom led to a lifelong dedication to community activism through organizing anti-crime marches in Jackson.

More:'A legacy of being involved': Jackson civil rights leaders' impact still felt today

Mercer's alma mater released a social media statement offering "heartfelt condolences to her family and the community."

Mayor Scott Conger also took to social media to note the close relationship between their two families and shared that "you can see her fingerprints on so many things," a sentiment reflective of her activism's extensive reach throughout the community.

In honor of Mercer's memory, Conger added in his statement that he requested that Gov. Bill Lee lower the flags to half-staff at the state capitol.