Minden’s 34th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebrations are once again taking place on Jan. 18, 2021, although with some changes made to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of attendees.
“Each year, we pause to commemorate the life and legacy of an international hero, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The official holiday for this celebration is the 3rd Monday in January each year. This year will mark our 34th annual observance in Minden, Louisiana. We want this milestone celebration to be memorable. Our theme for the 2021 MLK Celebration is ‘The Legacy – Dream Big! Believe Big! Act Big!’” a statement from the committee read.
“This year’s celebration will be different from previous years due to Covid-19, however we will make every effort to make sure the life and legacy of Dr. King is recognized and celebrated.” Strict social distancing and mask requirements will be enforced.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee members are continuing MLK Jr. Day events such as the MLK Essay Contest, MLK Video Contest for Lower Elementary Students, the presentation of Youth Leadership Awards, however, the winner of these contests will be announced online. The MLK Jr. Celebration Committee is streaming to Facebook and Youtube a Virtual Commemorative Symposium with community leaders, clergy, and citizens, young and old, participating where the winners will be announced.
The Ecumenical Unity March will still allow attendance in person, however mask wearing and social distancing will be required and enforced according to the committee.
On Jan 18 starting at 10:00 a.m. on MLK Drive, “beginning at MLK & Talton Street and concluding at MLK & Sheppard, Area Ministers and Community Leaders will lead the Unity March honoring the ministerial efforts of Dr. King and to recommit to fostering unity in our community. Participants can march or ride in their vehicles, utility carts, etc,” a statement from the committee read.
“All citizens of Minden, Black and White, all denominations, faith-based organizations, civic and social groups and businesses, are invited and encouraged to participate and re-commit our community to the ideals of Dr. King.”