Mistress of Ceremony Sandra Simmons, student Master Sergeant USAF Olivia Wanzo, Chairperson Connie Montgomery
Carolyn Suttles
There was an aura of peace and unity on January 18 in the Renaissance Theatre at Tuscany Falls. Just Folks Association, in partnership with Lifelong Learning, presented an inspirational program celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mistress of Ceremony Sandria Simmons introduced Just Folks President Jerome Sims. He welcomed the audience to the sixth annual MLK Celebration.
Community leader Mayor Georgia Lord of Goodyear introduced her staff and spoke on peace, respect and dignity for all. These are troubling times; much work is still to be done to move toward a perfect union. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to injustice everywhere.” A graceful praise dance by Minister Natosha N Jesus Name Ministries set the mood. Tessie Sharp led Lift Every Voice and Sing accompanied by Beverly Kim, pianist. A poem of the African American plight explaining “How we got to where we are today” by Jerome Sims brought us from Africa to America and the struggle to be free. Three impressionable students, Jerome Sims, III, Alesia Wright and Master Sergeant USAF Olivia Wanzo, gave a tribute to the life of Martin Luther King and what he meant to them. A special treat featured the Sudanese Choir from St. Paul the Apostle Sudanese Episcopal Church; their rhythm and song moved the audience. The Litany was led by Pastor Dennis Kizziar of PebbleCreek Community Church; he asked the congregation in the name of freedom, justice, the prophet Amos and suffering people, the Spirit of the Lord and Martin Luther King, Jr., “let my people go.”
Keynote speaker Pastor Bruce Jackson from The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist challenged the audience to stand for justice, dignity and equality for all. Become a good news people making a difference. Now is the time to rediscover our voice, start proclaiming and demanding good news. “Take up the battle,” do it now, do it always and don’t wait.
The program ended with a benediction by Pastor Gae Chalker of St. Peters Episcopal Church and the traditional song with hands joined, We Shall Overcome. Thanks to Connie Montgomery and her committee for keeping the dream alive by honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on his special day. His message and legacy live on.