Remembering Lynda Blackmon Lowery: A Civil Rights Icon

Lynda Blackmon Lowery, a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, passed away on December 24, 2025, at the age of 75 in her hometown of Selma, Alabama. Known for her courageous participation in the 1965 Selma voting rights march, Lowery's experiences as a young activist highlight the brutal realities faced by those fighting for equality during a pivotal moment in American history.

New York Times

On March 7, 1965, Lynda Blackmon Lowery, then just 14 years old, joined approximately 600 other marchers on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma. This event, known as "Bloody Sunday," was a response to systemic racial discrimination and aimed to secure voting rights for African Americans. The marchers were met with violent opposition from law enforcement, including state troopers and sheriff’s deputies, who were ordered by Alabama Governor George C. Wallace to disperse the crowd.

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Lynda Blackmon Lowery is remembered not only for her bravery but also for her resilience, having been arrested nine times by the age of 15 for her activism. Her experiences during the march were shared in her 2015 memoir, "Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March." Among the other notable figures present during the march was John Lewis, a civil rights leader who suffered severe injuries during the confrontation, including a fractured skull.

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Following Lowery's passing, her daughter, Danita Blackmon, confirmed the news but did not disclose the cause of death. Lowery's contributions to the civil rights movement have been widely acknowledged, with many reflecting on her courage and the sacrifices made by young activists during that era.

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Despite the progress made since the 1965 march, the struggle for voting rights continues. Critics argue that systemic issues still hinder access to voting for marginalized communities. The legacy of activists like Lowery serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against racial injustice and the importance of safeguarding voting rights.

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• “At first I tried to tell myself it would be okay, because there were so many of us,” — Lynda Blackmon Lowery

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• “Then I saw the state troopers putting on gas masks and I got really scared.” — Lynda Blackmon Lowery

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• “He continued to hit her as she fled.” — Lynda Blackmon Lowery, recounting the violence faced during the march.

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As the nation reflects on Lynda Blackmon Lowery's life and contributions, discussions surrounding voting rights and racial equality remain crucial. Her story continues to inspire new generations to advocate for justice and equality in America.

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