On May 17, over 75 attendees gathered in fellowship and reverence at Church of the Messiah, Winter Garden, to commemorate the Feast Day of Justice Thurgood Marshall. The event, themed “Justice, Faith, and Legacy,” marked a significant moment in the life of the Diocese of Central Florida, recognizing Marshall and his legacy as not only a towering legal figure in American history as the first Black justice of the United States Supreme Court, but also a lifelong Episcopalian who challenged both the church and country to rise to their highest moral callings.

This inaugural event was led by the Canon Nelson Pinder Union of Black Episcopalians Chapter of Central Florida, under the direction of its president, Mrs. Carrie A. Brown of St. John the Baptist, Orlando. Brown’s leadership and vision were instrumental in ensuring Marshall’s life and legacy were honored in a way that reflected both his faith and his fight for justice.

A Sacred Celebration With Civic Weight

The Feast Day of Thurgood Marshall is observed annually on May 17, the same date as the historic 1954 Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which Marshall argued and won, striking down racial segregation in public education and reshaping the nation’s legal and moral landscape.

The program was chaired by the Hon. Roger Johnson, also a member of St. John the Baptist, and past president of both the Paul C. Perkins Bar Association and the Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter of the National Bar Association. Johnson opened the luncheon with thoughtful remarks on the Episcopal tradition of feast days and the significance of Marshall’s legacy of justice and faith.

Marshall’s connection to Central Florida was further highlighted through remembrance of his defense of the Groveland Four: four Black men falsely accused of sexual assault in Lake County. He argued their appeal before the U.S. Supreme Court and later served as defense counsel in the retrial alongside pioneering Orlando attorney Paul C. Perkins Sr. Despite facing serious threats to his safety, including hostile mobs and law enforcement resistance, Marshall remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice. His role in the case stands as one of the most significant civil rights interventions in Florida’s history.

Equally important was Marshall’s long and active participation in The Episcopal Church. He was a longtime member of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Harlem, New York, where he served as senior warden and was elected as a delegate to the 1964 General Convention. When the church failed to pass a resolution affirming the moral right to resist unjust segregation laws, Marshall walked out in protest – a bold act of faith that spoke louder than any speech or closing argument.

‘Let Justice Roll’

The event was co-chaired by Mr. Ernest A. “Pete” Boyd, choir director at St. John the Baptist, whose musical leadership alongside members of the Jones High School Alumni and Community Band brought joy to the celebration.

Mistress of Ceremonies Faye Oliver Henderson, also of St. John the Baptist, graciously guided the day’s proceedings. The Rev. Canon Dr. Dee Wellington Bright, rector of Church of Our Savior, Palm Bay, offered the invocation, and the Rev. Edmondson Asgill, deacon at St. Timothy’s, Daytona Beach, gave the benediction.

The program featured the moving voice of 10-year-old Anya Lidia Nicholson, who sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” known as the “Black national anthem,” with stirring clarity. Later, 8-year-old Harlem Harvey, member of St. John the Baptist, called the audience to reflect with two of Justice Marshall’s quotes, offering a reminder that the work of justice belongs to every generation.

The Hon. Embry J. Kidd, circuit judge for the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, delivered the keynote address. To frame Marshall’s enduring legacy, he drew upon the prophetic voice of Amos, “let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” (Amos 5:24). With eloquence and conviction, he reminded attendees that Marshall’s life was not only a legal journey, but a moral one – rooted in the gospel’s call to lift up the oppressed and hold systems accountable.

The organization’s inaugural Community Impact Award was presented to Retired Florida Supreme Court Justice James E.C. Perry, who served as the first Black Circuit Court judge in Florida’s 18th Circuit Court (Brevard and Seminole counties). Mrs. Marian Pinder and Ms. Crystal Priester, widow and granddaughter of the late Rev. Canon Dr. Nelson W. Pinder, presented the award. Perry’s remarks were heartfelt, reflecting on his journey and deep belief in service to others.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Keep Witness

This moment also connected Marshall’s legacy to that of Canon Pinder, a towering figure in Central Florida’s civil rights movement and national president of the Union of Black Episcopalians from 2004-2007. Grounded in faith, justice and community, their lives continue to shine as enduring lights of integrity and purpose.

This inaugural Feast Day celebration was more than a moment. It called the church and community alike to remember, reflect and recommit to the sacred work of justice. As the final notes of the band echoed and guests departed, one thing was clear: This is only the beginning. The story of Thurgood Marshall must not only be remembered; it must be lived. If you missed this year’s event, we invite you to join us next year, as we continue to honor his life, faith and enduring legacy.

Together, we will keep the flame of justice burning bright!