The late Elder John R. Hayes, a leader in Asheville’s Black community, was a visionary who dedicated his life to uplifting youth and opening doors of opportunity for the underserved.
In addition to serving 16 years as president of the Asheville Buncombe branch of the NAACP and establishing Asheville’s radio station WRES 100.7, in 1977 he and activist Sophie Dixon founded the Hillcrest Enrichment program. That soon led to the establishment of the Hillcrest High Steppin’ Majorettes and Drum Corps, which, after Elder Hayes’s death in 2021, was renamed The John R. Hayes High Steppin’ Majorettes and Drum Corps.
Over the decades The High Steppers have marched, stepped, and drummed in countless events, including the 1995 Million Man March in Washington, D.C., where they were joined by legendary dancer and actor Gregory Hines, and at several events by the request of former NC Governor Jim Hunt. They have made special appearances with NC State University’s Marching Band; and in the Martin Luther King, Jr., Celebration in Atlanta, GA—as well as annually in the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. March and Rally in Asheville.
Now Elder Hayes’s legacy of service to the community continues under his son, Michael R. Hayes, who leads the Umoja Health, Wellness & Justice Collective, based at Trinity United Methodist Church in downtown Asheville. Afterschool programs there provide new generations of Asheville’s youth with opportunities for artistic expression, personal growth, and community involvement.
To support the educational and development programs of Umoja Health Wellness & Justice Collective, contact Michael R. Hayes, Executive Director at (828) 490-5774, or mail your contributions to Umoja Health, Wellness and Justice…
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