Valdosta honors MLK Jr. legacy - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

Valdosta honors MLK Jr. legacy

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By Lydia Jennings - bio | email

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VALDOSTA, GA (WALB) -

Nearly a thousand people filled Mathis City Auditorium to honor and celebrate civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Junior for the 28th annual MLK Junior Commemorative Committee's Youth Program

"It's very important to me that they know who Dr. King is and remember his legacy, the legacy that he's left for us," said attendant, Jamie Christopher.

Through singing, dancing, and poetry, children showcased their talents as a tribute to Dr. King. Keynote Speaker Brandon McCrae says today's holiday was even more special with the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

"I believe it was divinely orchestrated to even be this way," said McCrae.

McCrae says honoring this day is important for African Americans to remember their struggle to get equality. "I know in the black community we lack a lot of not giving honor, and credence and reverence to those that came before us."

And the children are proud to recite what they've learned.

"Martin Luther King set us free, and he fought for us," said 4th grader, Jalen Hudson.

"I learned about Dr. Martin Luther King and what he's done for African Americans, and how he paved the way for us," said 7th grader, Joaelle Christopher.

McCrae says Dr. King's legacy should be recognized by all people not just by African Americans.

"As a community whether it be black, white, hispanic, jew, gentile, the coming together, the bible says forsake not to assimilate yourselves of the saints, so its always good to come together and commemorate what you've been through," said McCrae.

The ceremony ended with an inspiring performance by the signing group The Sharper 5.

More then a dozen children's groups performed. This year's theme was "A View From The Mountain," inspired by one of Dr. King's speeches.

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