Megdar Evers’ Widow to Deliver Convocation at Inauguration

Myrlie Evers-Williams will become the first woman, and someone other than clergy, to say the prayer that precedes the ceremonial oath of office.

By Jorge Rivas Jan 09, 2013

The widow of slain Civil Rights organizer Medgar Evers will deliver the invocation at President Obama’s inauguration. Myrlie Evers-Williams is believed to be the first woman, and layperson other than clergy, to deliver the prayer that precedes the ceremonial oath of office, [according to The Washington Post.](http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/inauguration/medgar-evers-widow-to-deliver-invocation-at-obama-inauguration/2013/01/07/293904e2-592e-11e2-88d0-c4cf65c3ad15_story.html) The president’s inaugural planners also [announced Cuban-American Richard Blanco will be the 2013 inaugural poet. ](https://colorlines.com/archives/2013/01/gay_cuban-american_poet_richard_blanco_to_read_at_obamas_inauguration.html) The inaugural ceremony will take place on Jan. 21, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.