Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party

The Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP) was formed in 1964 by African Americans and their allies to challenge racial discrimination in the Democratic Party's official structure, especially in Mississippi where segregation was strictly enforced. During the 1964 Democratic National Convention, MFDP sought to be recognized as the legitimate representative of Mississippi's Democratic voters, competing with the all-white state Democratic delegation. Their effort highlighted racial injustice and efforts to expand political participation for Black Americans. Although they did not gain full recognition at the time, the MFDP was a significant step toward civil rights and greater representation for African Americans in politics.