New Brockton celebrates MLK Day

Celebrations for Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy in New Brockton began with a youth choir and a march on Monday, Jan. 18.

The choir sang patriotic and gospel songs while remembering some of the ideals King stood for.

Unity was a goal of King's, according to Rev. Barry Causey of Greater Springfield Baptist Church.

"This is a celebration," Jossie Caldwell from Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church said. "I think (his message) applies to everybody."

Angela Casper, the youth choir director at Poplar Springs Baptist Church, said that King's message of unity will continue to be remembered "as long as we teach our children to get along with one another, because Dr. King did call us to come together as one."

"A dream will never become reality if you don't wake up," Tysen Cole said about the work left to do to reach complete equality and unity.

MLK Day is more than remembering the civil rights activist. The day is also a time to remember his message.

Tracey Green from Collins Chapel A.M.E. Church said celebrating his message also helps people remember what has been accomplished with regards to civil rights.

"It's wonderful because it gives us a reminder of where we were and how far we have come to this day," Green said. "I just hope that we continue moving forward in a positive light."

Col. Teresa Townsend, who presented a message to the youth, gave five lessons inspired by King.

These lessons include: always be civil; peace and nonviolence is always better; always do the right thing; always find a way to help others; and, never give up on your dreams.

"In order for the dream to continue, you must hope, have faith and work," Townsend said.

Attorney Gladys Yelverton, the main speaker during the celebration, said that King was a strong leader who wanted everyone to work together.

"Dr. King was a man that brought hope and healing to America," Yelverton said. "We must learn the lesson that we must work together if we want to achieve anything."