Arlington community leaders and residents will unite virtually to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and advance his vision during a four-day celebration, Jan. 15-18, 2021.
In the latest Ask Arlington, MLK Committee Member Lemuel Randolph explains how celebrations will look different in 2021, and how Dr. King's dream lives on in The American Dream City.
What changes are the committee making due to the spread of COVID-19?
Randolph: Art and essay contest winners will be formally recognized at an opening event scheduled for Friday, Jan. 15. The celebration also includes a step show and drumline showcase and a poetry-meets-jazz event. We'll continue to post updates on the City's social media pages, and you can always visit arlingtontx.gov/mlk for a complete calendar of events.
What's happening with the annual awards banquet?
Randolph: We're moving the annual awards banquet...to a virtual event that will be open to anyone who wants to join the celebration in 2021. You're invited to join us Jan. 15 beginning at 6 p.m. to kick off the 2021 celebration. The theme is "Advancing the Dream: Unifying Our Nation." In addition to a discussion with the Unity Council, led by chair Dr. Jason Shelton, we will reveal and recognize our 2021 art and essay contest winners, the Advancing the Dream community award winners, collegiate scholarship recipients, United States Postal dedicated stamp and much more.
How are you planning to organize the Day of Service on MLK Day?
Randolph: The Day of Service will still take place. It's a day on, not a day off. And our committee is offering some suggestions about ways to be of service. Call an elderly family member, pick up trash in your neighborhood, register people to vote. All activities need to be done in a safe manner during COVID-19. We also ask everyone participating to share their service projects on social media with the hashtag #ArlingtonMLK and #MLKDayofService.
Click here to learn more about Arlington's 2021 Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations.
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