Fresno community gathers for the 40th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March and Commemoration program, Jan 15.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a civil rights activist who worked tirelessly for human rights in America. Through his leadership at peaceful protests and many public speeches, Dr. King made huge strides for equality and racial justice. Monday, Jan. 15 would have been Dr. King’s 95th birthday. 

The march starts at St. John’s cathedral in downtown Fresno and stops for speeches at Fresno City Hall. A series of people speak about their memories and the impact King made on America and the Fresno Community. Gail Gaston, a member of the MLK Unity Committee, leads the program and introduces the speakers. Latisha Harris ends the speeches with a Happy Birthday song and prayer. 

The march concludes at the Veterans Memorial Theater for the commemoration program. The program inside starts with a video featuring a diversity of Fresnans talking about the life and influence of Dr. King. Next, an African drum group gets the audience involved as well.

The MLK Youth Award is also presented by the Fresno MLK Unity Committee. This award recognizes young individuals who have contributed to promoting equality, justice and social change, carrying on the legacy of Dr, Martin Luther King Jr. Miracle Neal, ‘24, was one of the three recipients to receive this award.

“It’s important to me because I see it as a way of honoring all the Black and people of color who have fought for decades before me in order to allow me to have the opportunities I do,” said Neal.

Gallery • 8 Photos

Giada Gilmore Young

Photograph of Dr Martin Luther King Jr, leads march, Jan. 15.

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