Looking Forward to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Wayne Action for Racial Equality (WARE) in partnership with Redeem Bethel C.O.G.I.C., promises a meaningful day of remembrance on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Community Fellowship Center.

As the nation pauses to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Wayne County is preparing a local celebration that reflects the community’s commitment to justice, equality, and unity. The event, organized by Wayne Action for Racial Equality (WARE) in partnership with Redeem Bethel C.O.G.I.C., promises a meaningful day of remembrance on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Community Fellowship Center in Williamson.

The day begins at 11:30 a.m. with interactive informational displays and videos, offering a deep dive into Dr. King’s vision and ongoing impact. A standout moment will be the MLK Commemorative March, starting at 11:45 a.m. Participants will gather at the Main Street parking lot near the laundromat and Candy Kitchen to retrace the symbolic footsteps of Dr. King’s peaceful protests.

The highlight of the day, the main program, will start at 12:45 p.m. This segment will feature guest speakers, musical performances, and reflections designed to inspire attendees to carry forward Dr. King’s ideals. The day will conclude with a community dinner in the annex of Redeem Bethel C.O.G.I.C., underscoring the spirit of togetherness that Dr. King championed.

Meanwhile, on a broader scale, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced New York State’s annual tribute, titled “We Press On: New York State Celebrates the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” This program will air on PBS stations and stream online throughout the weekend. Coordinated by the New York State Office of General Services, the tribute highlights the work of New Yorkers who embody Dr. King’s legacy.

The state’s program will feature a performance by Vogue Buffalo, a profile on food historian Von Diaz, and a spotlight on the Hamilton Hill Arts Center, which celebrates African Diaspora arts. For those wishing to engage in person, a free screening of the program will take place at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany on Friday, January 17, at 6:30 p.m.

Both the local and statewide celebrations serve as reminders of Dr. King’s enduring influence. Local residents are encouraged to join the local event, which promises to foster a sense of community while honoring Dr. King’s legacy of unity and social justice.

For more details on the Wayne County event, visit the official Wayne Action for Racial Equality Facebook page, or reach out to community organizers Pat Hall, Jim Wood, or Joe Young. Let’s come together to honor a man whose vision continues to light our path forward.