FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 21, 2026
Contact:
Ebonee Johnikin
Foundation for the Mid South
(601) 319-3888
[email protected]
Foundation for the Mid South Leads MLK Day of Service and Launches New TRHT Cohort During National Day of Racial Healing
JACKSON, Miss. – Youth leaders and community members across Mississippi gathered for two days of service, dialogue, and reflection as the Foundation for the Mid South led MLK Day of Service activities and hosted the National Day of Racial Healing, marking the launch of a new Mississippi Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) cohort.
On Monday, January 19, young people led community service projects across Jackson as part of the MLK Day of Service, honoring Dr. King’s legacy through hands-on civic action. On Tuesday, January 20, educators, students, faith leaders, and community members convened at the Two Mississippi Museums for the National Day of Racial Healing, engaging in facilitated TRHT modules, legacy recognition, and guided dialogue focused on sustained action.
As part of the National Day of Racial Healing, the Foundation for the Mid South partnered with the Two Mississippi Museums to host an honorary Civil Rights Veteran Luncheon celebrating the legacy of Rev. Rim and Judy Barber. The luncheon featured a moderated panel discussion and included reflections from community, philanthropic, and civic leaders on the role of history, leadership, and healing in shaping Mississippi’s future.
The National Day of Racial Healing was sponsored by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Mississippi TRHT Alliance, with programming focused on truth-telling, relationship-building, and long-term community transformation.
“These two days were about action and reflection,” said Cassio Batteast, Vice President of Programs at the Foundation for the Mid South. “Young people led through service on MLK Day, and the National Day of Racial Healing created space for honest dialogue and connection.”
“The launch of this new TRHT cohort ensures that the work continues beyond this week and into communities across Mississippi,” Batteast added.
Participants were invited to sign up for upcoming TRHT cohort tracks focused on faith-based leadership, community and government leaders, higher education, youth organizations, and students. The Foundation for the Mid South will continue convening partners and supporting cohort participants throughout the year.
Photos, interviews, and additional information are available upon request.
About the Foundation for the Mid South
The Foundation for the Mid South is a community foundation serving the Mid South region, including Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas. Through grantmaking, partnerships, and convening, the Foundation works to advance racial equity, economic opportunity, and community well-being by supporting community-driven solutions.
###