Video: Tupelo Celebration of Doctor King Draws Large Crowd

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TUPELO, Miss. (WCBI) -The annual MLK Day celebration draws hundreds in Tupelo.

The Christian Life Center at St Paul Untied Methodist Church was filled with gospel music, prayers, and preaching.

The theme for this celebration was “Working Together With Strength for Unity”

Artis Webber Junior is pastor of East Baptist Church in Pontotoc and served as guest speaker. He said it’s important to remember the struggles and the triumphs of the ongoing civil rights movement, and the man who led the way.

“I think Dr King would be amazed and surprised, as well as overjoyed at the progress we have made in this country , but there is always and will continue to be opportunity for improvement and growth.”

Tupelo has the largest MLK Celebration statewide and many believe it has something to do with the backing from city leaders.

“I think why this celebration in Tupelo has grown where others have not is many years ago, the city made a commitment to participate and promote and support the events here.”

Many of those in this audience grew up during the struggle for equality and dignity. They believe it ‘s vital for younger generations to know what their forefathers sacrificed.

“I was talking to someone earlier today, wishing that their child was here so they would see this kind of event and be able to pass it on and learn from it.”

Some youngsters spent part of their holiday at the celebration. The life and achievements of Dr King are part of their lesson plans.

“He knew that black and white people couldn’t go in the same restrooms, they couldn’t go to the same restaurants, swimming pools, schools, Martin Luther King did a lot of things in his life.”

“He started bringing other colors with black people and gathered them in one place.”

Why is it important to remember him and have these kind of celebrations?
“Well, because I can go to school now.”

Organizers of the MLK Celebration want people to see this day as not just another day off from school or work, but a day to remember and reflect on the high price paid for freedom. In Tupelo I’m Allie Martin WCBI News .

That service is sponsored by the Modern Beauticians Club.