As thousands of people lined the streets of downtown Columbus Saturday, Arrica Baker thought about the tradition that brings people together for the annual Tuskegee-Morehouse Classic Parade.

“I just love things like this because it’s like a big family reunion, the opportunity to get out, see and meet people,” said Baker, standing on the sidewalk along Broadway.

She was among the crowd for the parade before the football game at A.J. McClung Memorial Stadium. At an event held one month before the Nov. 6 general election, the parade was a popular location for many politicians to greet supporters along with the marching bands, civic groups, motorcycle clubs and other groups.

Many like Baker said they didn’t even have a favorite team because it’s hard to choose between Morehouse and Tuskegee. “I know somebody is going to win,” she said.

Helen L. Bell of Columbus said she never had a problem supporting her team. 
“I’m a Georgian,” Bell said. “I’m Morehouse.”

A lifelong resident of Columbus, Bell said she was surprised at the turnout for the parade.
“I have been to most of them and this is a big turnout today,” she said. “It’s a lot going on for one thing.”