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Why King’s Legacy Must Be Highlighted All Year

By Leonard E. Colvin Chief Reporter New Journal and Guide Each year, many institutions and groups stage their annual tributes to Dr. Martin Luther, King, Jr. during the MLK Holiday that is observed on the third Monday of January. It is  the day closest to his January 15th date of birth.This year’s observances were on January 16. Four decades since the King holiday was put on the calendar, marches and speeches have highlighted his legacy and good works as a Civil Rights icon.       Recently the GUIDE posed the question to activists, faith leaders, civil rights, and political leaders: “How can Dr. King’s Legacy be recognized throughout the year, and not just mid-January?” *** In Lexington, Va., Rev. Reginald A. Early is the Pastor of the Randolph Street United Methodist Church. He is also President and co-founder of the Committee Anti-Racism Effort (CARE), Rockbridge. It is a racially diverse group that plans the annual MLK parade in that area since 2017.           Rev. Early said during the first year, members of Sons of Confederate Veterans and people bearing flags staged a counter demonstration in full regalia to honor Robert E. Lee. There was no violence. Never seen anything like it. It’s a sight to behold” he said. “For 20 years, they’ve come out. They have no shame.  But it just shows you the importance of how we must address the issue of racism every day throughout the year.” “You have a governor fighting against CRT (Critical Race Theory) which is not taught in any public school,” said Early. “That is just a code word to attack Black History and civil rights. Remember his administration did not mention Dr. King or President Obama in the drafts of proposed content in state history textbooks.” “Every (King) Holiday we must have forums to discuss the importance of Dr. King’s work. We must remind ourselves that Virginia is not blue yet and be vigilant.” ***         Former WAVY-TV10 anchor Don Roberts was one of the keynote speakers at Norfolk’s annual MLK Day observance at the Attucks Theater. “There are three things I think we can consider, starting with being excellent in all we do,” said Roberts. “This includes sweeping up the trash or planning a million dollars budget for public services.” “Second give a damn about yourself...Invest in yourself,” said Roberts. “Third, reach out to someone who may be struggling, and has less than you. Find the King inside you and use it to make a difference each day.” Newly elected Norfolk City Councilperson John “JP” Paige, who represents Ward 4, believes we can observe Dr. King’s legacy daily “first by teaching our young people about his sacrifices and work.” “Young people must be taught and told the truth about Dr. King and Black history,” said Paige. “They have a distorted view of him. He was more than about making speeches and marching.”       Paige said that it is the responsibility of the family first and educational institutions to do this. “Unfortunately, the family does not gather as we once did...on Sunday for dinner to talk about our community, our history, and other

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