The City of Dallas has begun its celebration of one of the influential leaders of the Civil Rights Movement.
Dallas began its annual weeklong Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration on January 9. This year’s theme is “Dream the Impossible Dream: Arise and Pursue the Legacy.”
This year’s celebration of the civil rights legend, who was gunned down decades ago in Memphis, Tennessee, will feature numerous events hosted by entities such as the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Office of Community Care, HELP, Work Force Solutions, and more. Officials believe that this year’s events and themes honor MLK and his ambitions while encouraging others to have the same spirit.
“The 2024 MLK Celebration Week theme: ‘Dream the Impossible Dream: Arise and Pursue the Legacy,’ encourages individuals to chase their most ambitious dreams and work towards leaving a lasting impact. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and determination in overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness identical to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” said Candace Wicks, vice chair of the MLK Community Center Advisory Board, according to a release.
Events in honor of MLK this week include a Day of Reflection, Prayer, and Dedication on January 9, a job fair on January 10, an “Equity Indicator’s Symposium,” a Youth Summit, and a Candle Lighting Ceremony on January 12, A community cleanup event on January 13, and a Scholarship & Awards Gala on January 13, according to a release. This year’s gala will feature Rev. Dr. Frederick Douglass Haynes as its keynote speaker.
These events will culminate with the MLK Day parade on January 15, which will have a new route this year.
“If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. Whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward,” said Clara Brown-Trimble, chair of the MLK Community Center Advisory Board, in the release. “In 2024 let us all Dream the Impossible Dream: Arise and Pursue the Legacy!”
Tickets for these events are available online.
