Seeing the plight of Delta families radicalized SNCC workers. They asked, “What good is it to desegregate a lunch counter if you have no money for food?” SNCC’s call for help found many responders. Musician Harry Belafonte hosted a benefit at Carnegie Hall. Comedian Dick Gregory chartered a plane and flew tons of food to the Delta. Michigan State students Ivanhoe Donaldson and Ben Taylor drove a truck loaded with donated supplies to Clarksdale during Christmas break. They were arrested and charged with possession of narcotics (aspirin and vitamins).
Pictured: A black and white photograph of comedian Dick Gregory helping people onto a bus headed to the Greenwood courthouse to register to vote. Five people stand in line to board the bus as Gregory stands to the left of them. A photographer and small child can be seen standing next to the bus in the background.
Credit: AP/Jim Boudier
