More than a memory: MLK march calls for commitment and change

As hundreds marched through the streets of the city – a call to action – the newcomers stood shoulder to shoulder with longtime attendees at the annual event commemorating one of the country’s most famous and influential civil rights leaders.

Among the newcomers in Monday’s crowd was Timbo Mack, who said the responsibility brought him to City Hall, where a short ceremony preceded a march in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Mack, 40, said he was driven by responsibility and accountability.

“Being an African American here in our community, I think it’s really important for all of us to stick together when it comes to things like this,” he said. “…just being here to support the dream and make sure that no matter what I do in my daily life, I continue to live up to that commitment.”

Organized by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., at least 300 people representing a wide variety of age and ethnic backgrounds took part in the mile-long march to honor King’s memory, which currently has 37 people.^th year.

Among those leading the crowd to the Church of the Good Shepherd were nine members who held individual letters over their heads while reading “We Believe” together.

King, known as a great public speaker and civil rights activist, was assassinated in Memphis in 1968.

The idea is not only to honor King’s memory, but also to understand that “the systemic injustice that he fought took a long time to create it, and it will take a long time to break it,” she said. Nikela Pradier, president of the sorority.

The march is open to all, and all will need to work together to address social issues including poverty, racism and militarism, she added.