The speaker is an observer watching from the window of the freedom school in Selma, Alabama. Identifying as part of a collective "we," the speaker witnesses the historic civil rights marchers depart for Montgomery. They note the physical toll of poverty on the protesters while recording the historical weight of the event.

The marchers are a group of civil rights protesters setting out on a five-day, 54-mile journey from Selma to Montgomery to demand equal voting rights. Described as "tattered angels of hope," they wear torn denim and walk barefoot through rain-rutted dirt roads. Despite their impoverished conditions, they step forward with determination and dignity, dancing to protest injustice.

The children are youth in Selma who emerge singing an anti-slavery song in the streets. They sing that they would rather be buried in their graves than be slaves. This action represents the next generation's refusal to accept life without equal rights.

Martin Luther King Jr. is the Reverend and civil rights activist who organizes the nonviolent march from Selma to Montgomery. He calls upon religious leaders and citizens of every race and faith to stand with Black Americans facing danger in their push for freedom.