The Rev. Bernice A. King, the daughter of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. remembered him as "the apostle of nonviolence" as admirers marked the 50th anniversary of his assassination Wednesday with marches, speeches and quiet reflection.
At events around the country, participants took time to both reflect on King's legacy and discuss how his example can apply to racial and economic divides still plaguing society. Instead of sorrow, King's contemporaries and a new generation of social activists presented a message of resilience and hope.
In Athens, a vigil taking place this evening from 5 to 7 pm at the Triangle Plaza at the corner of Vine Street and Nelly B. Avenue. Broderick Flanigan is the event organizer.
"We want to come together in front of that space, and not necessarily have a program per se, but to come and drop off flowers, cards and wreaths," said Flanigan. "We're going to have Mr. Isaiah Ellison, the owner of the property over there to say a few words, to maybe have a meditation moment, a moment of prayer. And to really focus and reflect inwardly mostly, on the legacy of Dr. King."
In addition, the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens honored Dr. King’s legacy with a day-long commemoration. The church is live-streaming tributes and events from the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis until 7 pm. And from 7:15 to 8:30, UUFA will shares Dr. King’s words, sing, and discuss where we go from here. The event will close with promises, prayers, and a light reception.