Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was more than just another man. His words and his leadership not only helped African Americans make great strides through the Civil Rights Movement but they also inspired generations of Americans with a message of hope.
The society established the annual celebration honoring Dr. King six years before the federal government declared a national holiday recognizing his accomplishments because his message and his life are that important to America. The celebration, which fills the room every year with people from all backgrounds, helps to inform youth and members of our community about the importance of passing on King’s message.
“Every generation has to make its own stand for freedom, for justice, for peace,” said the Rev. Clarence Johnson of Mills Grove Christian Church in Oakland, a speaker at one of our programs. “We have inherited a wonderful legacy from Dr. King.”
By attending the event, families get a chance to connect with their neighbors and hear stories of hope from people with similar backgrounds who encourage them not to fall prey to fear or hatred, and not to lose sight of the bigger dream of which King so famously spoke.