'This is his dream': Activists, leaders honor Dr. King Jr.'s vision of equality
NEW YORK (PIX11) – Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a day to reflect on the contributions of a man who championed justice, equality, and peace. Keeping his legacy alive.
Almost four decades later, activists and leaders say that Dr. King Jr.’s vision of a more diverse America where all people enjoy the benefits of equality remains a fight they are not giving up.
From Concerts to basketball games, Saturday was filled with events inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s vision.
“Without him, we wouldn’t be able to be playing this game,” said Omari from Westchester County.
“Dr. King was all about service above self how do we bring people together and unity.” Added Basketball coach Aaron Spring.
Dr. King’s message of inclusivity and togetherness resonated across our communities. In Harlem, Reverend Al Sharpton welcomed city, state, and federal leaders to the National Action Network’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Policy Forum. He announced a major rally in Washington, D.C., this upcoming Tuesday to unveil a new plan to safeguard diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“As Donald Trump puts his hands to be sworn in as 47TH President of the United States, we will be three miles away putting our hands up taking an oath to keep Dr. King’s dream alive,” stated Sharpton.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul pledged to continue following Dr. King’s footsteps.
“Life's most persistent and urgent question is what are you doing for others?” I say the time for asking that question is over. The time to show your actions is now.” Said Hochul.
At the Brick Presbyterian Church on the Upper East Side, the Young People's Chorus and the Harvard Glee Club paid a moving tribute to Dr. King‘s dream of understanding ourselves through others.
“Music is the one thing where people don’t really argue, so when we sing, we sing from our hearts. We are not really judging people when we sing,” said Aaliyah Joseph.
“These young people, even though they come from every part of NYC, background, religion, color, they going to be here together to show the joy and opportunity of what music can do by bringing the community together,” added Francisco Nuñez – Young People’s chorus, Artistic Director
Just like Martin Luther King Jr. wanted, where all people live together in harmony.
“In my way, this is his dream, everyone being together, singing, doing what we want to do together,” concluded Jamari Burrowes-Davis.