Coconino News

The City of Peoria is gearing up to commemorate the remarkable legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a grand celebration on Saturday, January 13. Held at the Peoria Community Center, located at 8335 W. Jefferson Street, the event promises to be a day filled with arts, culture, service, and community engagement.

From 10 am to 2 pm, the public is invited to immerse themselves in a variety of activities that showcase the rich African heritage and promote unity. Renowned educator and musician, Dr. Lydia Woods of Drum Arizona, will be leading participatory African drumming demonstrations, allowing attendees to experience the vibrant rhythms firsthand.

Live music from the Rio Grand band will fill the air, creating a lively atmosphere for all. Additionally, a live mural painting will captivate visitors as artists bring their creativity to life right before their eyes.

Spoken word performances will take center stage, providing a platform for individuals to express themselves and share their thoughts on the enduring message of Dr. King. These powerful performances will remind everyone of the importance of using their voices to advocate for justice and equality.

In line with Dr. King's commitment to the well-being of others, the event will also feature health and wellness vendors, service projects, and community resources. First Things First, a prominent organization, will distribute free multi-cultural books for children and provide valuable information on their programs.

Local non-profits and service organizations such as Bloom 365, Foundation for Senior Living, Adelante Healthcare WIC Services & Benefits, Hart Pantry, Mentally Anonymous, Vibrant Communities, and Contexture will also be present, offering their support and resources to the community.

An integral part of the celebration involves giving back to those in need. Onsite service projects will be available, allowing attendees to construct care packages for deployed US military members overseas, as well as activity bags for children in transitional homes. This gesture of kindness and compassion echoes Dr. King's belief in the power of service to transform lives and build a more inclusive society.

The highlight of the event will be the ceremony on the main stage, commencing at 11 am. The Buffalo Soldiers of America will present the colors, symbolizing the unity and strength that Dr. King fought to achieve. The National Anthem and the Black National Anthem will be performed by the talented Francine Reed, captivating the audience with her soulful rendition.

To ensure that everyone can fully enjoy the festivities, a complimentary plated meal will be served in the auditorium of the Peoria Community Center from noon to 1:30 pm. This communal gathering will provide an opportunity for attendees to connect, reflect, and share in the spirit of unity.

Throughout the day, spoken word performances will continue to captivate the audience, with scheduled performances at 12:45 pm and 1:30 pm. These powerful expressions of art and emotion will serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of Dr. King's words and actions.

For more information about the event and an updated list of participants, interested individuals can visit the official website at https://peoriaaz.info/MLK. The website will provide all the necessary details to ensure a memorable and inspiring celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s remarkable legacy.

As Peoria comes together to honor Dr. King, this event serves as a testament to the enduring power of his message. By promoting unity, celebrating diversity, and encouraging community engagement, the City of Peoria is keeping the spirit of Dr. King alive and inspiring future generations to continue his fight for equality and justice.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.peoriaaz.gov/Home/Components/News/News/5501/439