By: Terry Allen
On October 15, 1995, six of us from Dallas answered the call. Three of us traveled together — men with conviction in our hearts and hope on our minds. We flew into Richmond, Virginia, and walked and bussed our way to Washington, D.C., for the historic Million Man March. Along the two-hour journey, we shook hands with thousands of men and women. The energy was electric, the purpose clear, and the unity unforgettable.
But the moment that forever marked me wasn’t from the stage — it was from the sidewalk. An elder Black woman stood across from the main entrance in her Sunday best, stunning jewelry shining like she was heading to church. I walked up and said, “Hello, ma’am, I’m Terry. We’re from Dallas.” She smiled and said, “They told us this march was for men, but I had to come see our Black men — no matter what.”
Her name was Mildred. We lifted her onto our shoulders, carried her into the march, and snapped a Polaroid together. days later, I mailed her the picture. A week later, she made her first long distance call to Texas, crying tears of joy that we hadn’t forgotten her. Imailed here 25.00 for the call and asked her to call me collect from now on. For the next decade, we spoke on holidays and birthdays until she died. She became part of my :Big Mama” story — part of our legacy.
What happened that day ignited something deeper in all of us. Without planning it, each brother who went on that trip created initiatives and businesses inspired by the Million Man March: 1016 Films, 1016 Media, RAAH (Remembering African American History) — all born from that one powerful moment of unity.
Floyd Erving : “For me, the Million Man March in 1995 (2015) was a must-attend. There were over a million African American men who were all together at one time. One place. One purpose. We left with a vision; dreams were freed. Men implemented plans for businesses, got involved in our communities, and strengthened their families. We were empowered to do and be better. Many embraced the growth.”
Larry T : “ Miraculously we could feel the impact of confirmation for Black men as we did that day it was unprecedented power.
Reginald C: “As an assistant district attorney at the time, the March experience inspired me to become a lawyer focused on justice for families that look like mine.”
Tony V. : “The immersion of positive Black men, and Maya Angelou’s tearfully powerful speech, drove me to create an entertainment vehicle that showcases our greatness.”
Terry Allen : “The March told me I am enough — that my role was to turn inspiration into action. That moment gave birth to movements like City Men Cook, a living continuation of the Million Man March’s spirit. For 25 years, City Men Cook has been a stage for Black male excellence — chefs, fathers, mentors, and community leaders showcasing love, responsibility, and unity through food and fellowship. It has helped amplify positive stories about Black men while providing health and wellness screenings for brothers who were once untested and unscreened. It’s proof that when we come together, we heal, we build, and we lift others with us. And I know, without question, Big Mama would be proud.”
Even on our flight home, the spirit carried on — flight attendants offered extra refreshments, Both black and white passengers smiled, and the pilot himself came out to greet us. One elderly white female patted me on my hands and said “You all did Good” That’s when I knew: this march wasn’t just for Medgar, Martin, or Malcolm. It was for all of us — to stand tall, move forward, and never forget who we are. I pledged to be part of every conversation on reconciliation and healing.
Terry Allen is an NABJ award-winning Journalist, DEI expert, PR professional, and founder of the charity – Vice President at Focus- PR, Founder of City Men Cook, and Dallas Chapter President of NBPRS.org
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