President Donald Trump's appearance for the grand opening of Mississippi's new history and civil rights museums this Saturday have some planning to protest and others planning to boycott the event in downtown Jackson.
Dennis Dahmer is the son of Vernon Dahmer Sr., a civil rights leader killed 50 years ago when Ku Klux Klansmen firebombed his family's home and businesses near Hattiesburg. His father is featured in the civil rights museum. Dahmer says when President Trump confirmed his attendance for the opening of the museum, some family members decided to stay away.
"They do not want to be part of that atmosphere. He is tainting that atmosphere. By his very presence, based on what his actions and his inactions have been," said Dhamer.
Governor Phil Bryant invited President Trump to attend the opening. He says, he's disappointed in the pushback from some Mississippians.
"We are better than that. We are kinder and more tolerant here in Mississippi than perhaps other places. Allow the President to come and honor Mississippi with his speech and his presence," said Bryant.
Dhamer says the Governor's invitation was insensitive. He says he will attend and stand up for the legacy of his father and other civil rights leaders.
"We're coming there to honor the legacy of our father, grandfather and to stand up for him. I understand there are a lot of folks who are not going to show up and I understand their reasoning for that but you have to face these kinds of issues head-on," said Dahmer.
The NAACP says Trump should cancel his appearance. Other activists are also threatening to boycott the event.
