Children were an important part of Beacon’s obsservance
BEACON – In remembrance of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,
and his courageous efforts during the civil rights era, residents of Beacon,
along with local elected officials, celebrated the city’s annual
MLK Day march on Monday.
This year drew a huge turnout, well into the hundreds, all of different ages and ethnicities.
Elder Harold Kimble Jr. of Poughkeepsie said the event reminded him of the struggles he lived through in the 1960s, reinforcing his admiration of the strength of Dr. King and showing him, once again, how human perseverance is still important to recognize today.
“That’s what makes the difference: when people can go beyond their comfort level; when they can go beyond what’s nice and easy for themselves and go out to assist, help, and make things better for the world and for our future,” said Kimble.
With the recent increase of concern among minority communities pending the incoming presidential administration, Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro said now is the time to take a look back to Dr. King’s exploits mindfully.
“Now, more than ever, it seems that we ought to find the commonality with one another, that it is ok to advocate through non-violent tension for the kind of change that’s necessary in world, and we ought to extend to one another a love and kindness; but, do it so in service to one another,” said Molinaro. “Dr. King reminded us that we can all serve one another and that we are all part of one inseparable community.”
Beacon continues to be a community known for social justice and open mindedness, said Mayor Randy Casale.
“I believe Beacon is the beacon for all leadership in communities: social rights, all kinds of rights, and I believe Beacon always leads by example and will continue to do that,” said Casale. “I want everybody that lives here to know, no matter what race, religion, or sex/gender you are we’re going to protect your freedoms here in Beacon.”
