How the Annie Malone Parade’s uncertain future sparked renewed interest in the woman for whom its named

When organizers of the annual Annie Malone May Day parade in St. Louis announced its cancellation this year, many people — especially in the Black community — were disappointed. Funds for the parade were redirected to support clients who needed shelter and food. But, the outpouring of community support means the parade can forward as planned. The attention also reignited a passion and interest in the woman for whom the parade is named: Annie Malone. Linda Nance, who founded the Annie Malone Historical Society in 2013, discusses Malone’s legacy and why it’s more than “just a parade.”