BEDFORD – The 33rd annual Martin Luther King Jr. march invited members of the community to walk together in unity before convening to Dive Christian Church for an afternoon service.
Clarence Brown got things started with a song for all of those who filled the entryway of the Lawrence County Courthouse, followed by a song and remarks by Pastor George Hamlin from the Seymour First Church of God.
Brown reflected on the previous marches and the men who allowed him to continue to do what was set in front of him.
“In 1989 we had a program right out here at the courthouse, and I had Mayor John Williams and Reverend Sylvester Sykes with me, but now they have sadly both passed away, but you know what? We’re still marching John, Reverend Sykes, we’re still marching. They allowed me to stand here and do what God wanted me to do,” said Brown.
Mayor Sam Craig discussed the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. and his insight on being the best person you can be.
“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. committed himself for the dedication of civil human rights,” said Mayor Craig. “Not only did he progress justice everywhere, he also provided wisdom to live by. ‘Be a bush if you can’t be a tree. If you can’t be a highway, just be a trail. If you can’t be a sun, be a star. For it isn’t by the size that you win or fail. Be the best that you can be.'”
The group then moved from the warmth of the courthouse to walk and sing together around the downtown square in honor of the brave men and women who marched for equality with Martin Luther King Jr. so many years ago.
