Organizers hope Saturday's parade inspires youth

Around Shreveport, efforts are picking up to get the African American History Parade Celebration ready for Saturday. Parade committee member David McDaniel is putting the final touches on his float. He handles the event's logistics, and says the cars, candy, and beads are all fun. However, the parade sends a positive message to the children watching.

"To be able to come out and enjoin and enjoy, and look at a positive and enjoyable function," McDaniel said.

State Representative Barbara Norton founded the parade more than two decades ago with the late Claude Underwood. She says the parade offers younger generations a chance to learn about African Americans' struggle for equality.

"We want our children to know what we came from, where we are, and where we're going," Norton said.

She also wants children to have reassurance that their future is bright.

"But today, is a different day," she said. "Today is the day that we continue to move forward to allow our children to understand the struggle of yesterday, was yesterday and where we are today is an opportunity for all Americans."

McDaniel says he hopes the African American community can unite through the parade.