Martin Luther King Jr. Day March and Rally in Duluth

Over 100 March Despite Frigid Temperatures

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is remembered for peacefully leading the civil rights movement. It’s a sentiment that was echoed by community members who attended the MLK march and rally in Duluth.

The march started around 10:45 am at the Washington Center.

“We’ve been doing this for many many years, I can’t even count the years, but we were doing it before it was a national or state holiday,.” said Claudie Washington, the president of the Duluth NAACP.

Signs criticizing racial and income inequality could be seen, but community members wanted to emphasize the messages of peace and caring that Dr. King taught

“As Dr. Martin Luther king said, it’s not just up to one of us, or one section of the community, it’s up to everyone in the community,” said Kym Young, a Community Human Rights Advocate. 

Many of the attendees say that Dr. King’s message went beyond fighting for civil rights.

“Our community Is not immune to racism or all these other issues but as you see standing in this room right now you see people of all religions all cultures all nationalities, all races, all faiths,” said Young.

The crowd marched through downtown Duluth and to the DECC where a rally was held.  There was music and refreshments at the Rally, where attendees sat down in the DECC auditorium to listen to speakers and performers celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King.

“The biggest theme is to build community. To help each other to be that good neighbor that good Samaritan. To come together in peace and move forward in peace,” said Young.

Individuals and organizations were recognized with Justice for Peace Awards at the rally, for their work of raising awareness and helping build a better future for everyone.