COLUMBUS, Ind. — During a day of presentations, diversity recognition,and virtual panel discussions, Columbus found several ways to honor the teachings of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday.
But for those who lived through the 1960s, the spirit of the slain civil rights leader may have felt strongest during the Monday afternoon march from the Bartholomew County Library to Columbus City Hall.
More than 75 people made the five-block march, which ended when Columbus North student Zacaria Scruggs delivered a passionate reading of King’s classic 1963 “I Have A Dream” speech.
More than a few of the participants were grade school-age children.
Although many in attendance were not born when Dr. King delivered his iconic address in front of the Lincoln Memorial, several pointed out they felt the words are just as relevant today as they were 58 years ago. For example.
“In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence.”
For the complete story, and more photos, see Tuesday’s Republic.
