His legacy, our commitment

CROWLEY - During a strong speech during Crowley Martin Luther King celebration on Monday, keynote speaker Johnny Anderson challenged younger generations to stand up and face the issues that confront them today. 

“It’s hard to hear freedom ringing when we have jails that are filled with black kids,” said Anderson. “We have to instill a pride that makes young people the type of leaders that we need.”

Anderson’s powerful speech highlighted this year’s well-attended Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration. The event is sponsored by the Crowley alumnae of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and is held annually. The event was held at the Martin Luther King Center in Crowley. 

The theme for this year’s event was “MLK: His legacy, our commitment.” 

The size of the crowd did not go unnoticed. 

“It’s nice to this many here today,” said Crowley Mayor Greg Jones. 

“From Selma to Birmingham to where it tragically ended in Memphis,” continued Jones. “It was a tragic, tumultuous time. He never quit. He never gave up.”

Brenda Pattum, with Delta Sigma Theta welcomed the crowd. 

“It shows great respect that all of you would put aside everything and join us to pay respect to this great man,” she said. “He did what he believed in. And he made a difference.” 

There were several skits and performances put on by groups such as the Delta Sigma Theta’s Debs and Beaux and the Delta GEMS and EMBODI.

Bethany Pete, with PJs Dance Studio, put on a Lithurgical Dance that had those in attendance cheering loudly. And the Jerusalem Ba;ptist Church Youth Choir performed a hymn that was highlighted by the singing of youngsters Trace and Treasure Savoy. 

Pattum was sure to point out the recent 50th anniversary of King’s “I had a Dream” speech in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 28, 1963. 

However, it was Anderson’s speech that seemed to have those in attendance buzzing following the ceremony. 

“I don’t think we are losing a generation, I still have hope in this generation,” he stated. “We have to demand more.”