Georgia-Pacific’s Donation Helps Preserve Civil Rights History in Mississippi

June 13, 2023

Jackson, Miss. — Just days before the 60^th anniversary of the death of renowned civil rights activist Medgar Evers, his home in Jackson, Mississippi, has been designated as a national monument. Georgia-Pacific leaders Curley Dossman, vice president of community relations, and Chris Graham, senior vice president of compliance and ethics and member of the Georgia Advisory Board for the Trust for Public Land, were on hand to celebrate the historic event. Georgia-Pacific’s contribution to the Trust for Public Land for the preservation and renovation of the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home has played an important role in maintaining its status as a site of education and inspiration.  

Medgar Wiley Evers, a civil rights activist in Mississippi and an NAACP field secretary, played a pivotal role in the successful integration of the University of Mississippi and other peaceful solutions to social issues. His 1963 assassination sparked a new determination for social justice and “After Medgar, no more fear” became the new motto of the Movement. This momentum ultimately led to the signing of The Civil Rights Act by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. 

From 1955 to 1963, Medgar Evers shared the home with his wife, Myrlie, and their three young children. In 1993, the home was dedicated to Tougaloo College and later was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2000.  

Georgia-Pacific’s contribution to this effort adds to its long-standing commitment to creating the best possible environment where all people have the opportunity to develop their unique talents and abilities. The company has partnered with The King Center and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR) in Atlanta, and the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis to advance education and awareness of individual rights.  

Read about Georgia-Pacific's $1 million dollar donation to  the NCCHR and its mission of helping communities in Atlanta and educating everyday Americans.