Toccoa Main Street Unveils Equal Rights Plaque at Ritz Theatre

By Ethan Jordan, WNEG Radio, Toccoa

A plaque recognizing the history of the Civil Rights movement in Toccoa now hangs in the Historic Ritz Theatre in Toccoa.

Mistress of ceremonies Danyelle King began the program by reading a quote about the significance of a community knowing its history.

Toccoa Improvement Association President Marie Cochran read the inscription of the plaque to the audience and later explained that historically, balcony seating wasn’t regarded the same as it is today.

Toccoa Vice Mayor Evan Hellenga spoke about how Toccoans are stronger together than they are separated.

Toccoa Improvement Association President Marie Cochran read the inscription of the plaque to the audience and explained that historically balcony seating wasn’t regarded the same as it is today.

Following Cochran’s speech, King introduced Former Toccoa Mayor L.J. Harrison.

Harrison, who was unable to attend the event out of caution for the COVID-19 pandemic and because he was celebrating his 59th wedding anniversary, recorded a statement about the event.

Closing out the program was Zikerion Reese who performed the song “Change is Gonna Come.”

The event was co-sponsored by Main Street Toccoa and the Toccoa Improvement Association.

The event was co-sponsored by Main Street Toccoa and the Toccoa Improvement Association.