Wayne County Gathers to Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy
Wayne County residents will come together today to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., with a day filled with reflection, remembrance, and community engagement. Organized by Wayne Action for Racial Equality (WARE) in partnership with Redeem Bethel C.O.G.I.C., the event will take place at the Community Fellowship Center in Williamson, NY (4496 NY-104).
The celebration kicks off at 11:30 a.m. with interactive informational displays and videos at Redeem Bethel C.O.G.I.C., offering attendees an opportunity to explore Dr. King's vision and his lasting impact on the fight for racial and social justice.
One of the most powerful elements of the day is the MLK Commemorative March. Participants will gather at the Main Street Parking Lot near the laundromat and Candy Kitchen at 11:45 a.m. and begin marching to Redeem Bethel C.O.G.I.C. at 12:30 p.m. The march serves as a poignant tribute to Dr. King’s peaceful activism and unwavering commitment to equality.
Following the march, the main program will begin at 12:45 p.m. and run until 3:15 p.m., featuring guest speakers, musical performances, and reflections on Dr. King’s enduring message. The event will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and reaffirm their commitment to justice and unity.
To conclude the day, a free community dinner will be served immediately following the program in the annex of Redeem Bethel C.O.G.I.C. This meal, made possible through generous support from Reliant Credit Union, Sodus Pride Lions, and Paton’s Marketplace, symbolizes the spirit of unity and shared purpose that Dr. King championed.
This local celebration coincides with New York State’s annual tribute, “We Press On: New York State Celebrates the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that the statewide program will air on PBS stations and stream online throughout the MLK weekend. This broadcast, coordinated by the New York State Office of General Services, highlights the contributions of New Yorkers who embody Dr. King’s principles of justice, equality, and service.
The community is reminded that Dr. King’s work remains as relevant today as ever. His vision of justice, equality, and unity continues to inspire individuals to advocate for change and work toward a brighter future for all.
For more details on the Wayne County event, community members can visit the Wayne Action for Racial Equality Facebook page or contact event organizers Pat Hall (585-737-2542), Jim Wood (585-967-8687), or Joe Young (585-857-6816).