Citizens Gather for March on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Even the cold temperatures could not keep away the passion and excitement of supporters at the Martin Luther King, Jr. march Monday.
Monday’s gathering actually got started with a worship service Sunday night. St. Mark AME and other churches provided volunteers. For Reverand Galloway, the future cannot be taken for granted.
Reverend Anthony Galloway at St. Mark AME Church said, “We do MLK March quite a bit. And I think the NAACP makes it really clear that we need to start thinking about our vision forward. How we bring new voices in. We can’t keep having the same folks repeat over and over again. What is the articulation of a vision going forward continuing that fight? ”
Those braving the cold, bundled up to brace for the below zero temperatures, but their spirits were not dampened by the weather. The youngest marchers were provided additional scarves to keep warm, . The walk took about a half an hour, winding its way through downtown’s frozen streets.
March leaders sang inspirational songs and chanted positive messages throughout the route. After being outside for several blocks, the march took a turn inside for the rest of the journey at an entry point headed toward the DECC Skywalk. An afternoon rally was scheduled to begin shortly. Everyone had their own unique reason for joining in the march.
Gabriel Mayfield, Sr. is a performer who has lived in Duluth for 23 years volunteered on MLK day many times. His eyes are squarely on Dr. King’s legacy.
“To celebrate Martin Luther King and what he stood for. All the work he put in and how important he is to the world and this community. ”
King’s message was one of breaking down barriers, and forming multi-racial coalitions. Seth Loeffler-Kemp has been participating in the march since his mother held him as a child on her hip. He was a 911 operator in Minneapolis during the time of George Floyd’s murder.
” The City was on fire. I saw directly between community not being supportive and the trickle effect that has on a community and distraction from inside out. And so the importance of being in our work as public safety officials is vital in what we are trying to do for our community safety and our community’s benefit as a whole. ”
Stephanie Williams was recently elected to Duluth’s School Board. But on this day, she was all about seeing community members working together toward a united path.
“Martin Luther King Day is a day that is called for service and volunteer work, so it’s always nice to hear what people are doing out in the community to help others and to help neighbors. I have definitely seen that increase throughout the years. It’s something I will participate in through my dying day. ”
Other area organizations involved in today’s march were The Family Freedom Center, formerly known as the Washington Center, and Americorp.
Those marching today say they are looking forward with a goal of building legacy… and filled with an optimism that only the hope and promise of Dr. King’s Dream can bring.
