Mt. Zion Baptist Church (Canton, Mississippi)

Mt. Zion Baptist Church is a historic African American Baptist church located in Canton, Mississippi. It played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, particularly in Madison County, Mississippi.

The church served as a meeting place and organizing center for civil rights activities during the 1960s. It was a focal point for voter registration drives, mass meetings, and strategic planning sessions aimed at challenging segregation and racial discrimination in the region. Prominent civil rights activists, including Medgar Evers, are known to have spoken at the church.

Mt. Zion Baptist Church endured threats and violence due to its activism. It was targeted by white supremacists and subjected to bombings and arson attempts. Despite these challenges, the congregation remained steadfast in its commitment to social justice.

Today, Mt. Zion Baptist Church continues to serve as a place of worship and a symbol of resilience and the ongoing struggle for equality. The church's history is a testament to the courage and determination of African Americans in the face of adversity. It is considered a valuable historical landmark and a reminder of the pivotal role that religious institutions played in the Civil Rights Movement. Historical markers detail some of the events that took place there. The church also maintains records and archives related to its history and the Civil Rights Movement in the area.