The annual Bridge Crossing Jubilee is not a black thing or a white thing. It’s a good-for-Selma thing.

The figures speak for themselves.

An estimated 25,000 people attend Jubilee each year. Local organizers expect even more for this year’s event — the 46th year anniversary.

Jubilee is the city’s biggest draw each year. There’s an increase in lodging, traffic and tourism, according to Candace Johnson, tourism director for Selma and Dallas County.

Rooms are reserved.

Restaurants are gearing up for additional customers.

People will spend money here.

Here, we tend to see events in terms of race. That attitude is outdated.

The events on the bridge that lead to the passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act freed all of us. It is time we realized this, and pushed forward.

We welcome those living foot soldiers back home with open arms.

We welcome those who want to learn this history and celebrate a milestone in American history.