Local events are reminder of King’s service to others

Monday is observed as Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Several events will take place in the coming days to celebrate the civil rights leader.

Poplar Bluff will be home to the 37th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Program on Monday at Wheatley School, starting at 11 a.m. Keynote speaker Michelle Webb, president of the Butler County NAACP, will speak on King’s dream and how that dream can be a reality for future generations.

A donation drive will also be held from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday at the Osage Centre and Shawnee Park Center in Cape Girardeau. Non-perishable food items, winter clothes, toiletries and blankets will be accepted. Donations will be given to schools and organizations such as First Call for Help and The People’s Shelter.

The 33rd annual MLK Program will be held at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at St. James AME Church in Cape Girardeau. The Rev. Dihan Tatman will give the keynote speech, and a service award in King’s honor will be given out at the event. The annual MLK Memorial Breakfast is set for 8 a.m. Monday at the Shawnee Park Center.

Southeast Missouri State University will hold its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration on Wednesday, Jan. 25. Kendra Neely-Martin will be the keynote speaker.

We often remember King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech — particularly during this time of year when we celebrate his legacy. Like King, we believe it’s vital that we not judge others “by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” King’s character is certainly something to celebrate. May we all reflect on his life’s work and how we, too, can continue his legacy of service.

We look forward to celebrating King’s life and impact at these upcoming events.