CEDAR BLUFF, Va. -While we’ve already passed this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the celebration of the civil rights leader’s life is continuing in our area.
Due to inclement weather, Southwest Virginia Community College’s annual MLK Day Luncheon had to be postponed. But an organizer says this event still brought a good attendance, with around 100 people joining-in.
In addition to the lunch itself, attendees heard an inspirational message about the work of Martin Luther King Jr., with the keynote address given by their special guest, Bettie Mae Fikes, who actually marched with Dr. King in what would become known as Bloody Sunday.
This luncheon has become a long-running tradition for the college, with the event celebrating a milestone as well: thirty years of reminding the community of Dr. King’s life of service. We asked an organizer and speaker what he attributes the longevity to.
“I think it’s something that the community needs. I think that when we talk about community and service, Martin Luther King exemplifies all of it and since he is the leader of service, this is what we need as a community to keep us going and to keep our service and to recognize our service,” says Antwan VanBuren, coordinator for student engagement and inclusion at SWCC.
VanBuren says they plan to continue this tradition next year, but you won’t have to wait until then to honor the legacy of Dr. King. Southwest Virginia Community College will be holding events for Black History Month in the coming weeks. You can find more information including dates and times on their website.
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