Baristanet reports

The South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race is hosting its 20th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance and Luminary Project on January 18, 2021 at 2:00 PM. This year’s event will be shared virtually via YouTube “Live” using this link https://youtu.be/hkh36SYKLm8. Everyone is welcome to participate—no account is needed.

At a time when our nation is simultaneously battling COVID19, economic challenges, and blatant racial injustices & inequities, the Community Coalition on Race’s goal for this year’s observance is to instill hope and sustain resilience locally. So, the MLK Planning Committee has chosen “Community in Times of Challenge and Controversy” as the theme for this year.

Together, our community will reflect on and celebrate the spontaneous events, expanded programs, social justice protests and rallies, and other efforts that held South Orange and Maplewood together throughout 2020. The virtual format will feature reflections on Dr. King’s legacy shared by Andrea McChristian, Law & Policy Director at the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, along with, a CHS Special Dance Company performance, jazz by Gregory Buford’s School of Music, spoken word, and premier videos.

Traditionally, we sing We Shall Overcome together. This year, the singing will be led virtually by the MLK community chorus. The Observance will end with an invitation for the SOMA community to light luminaries outside at sunset (4:45 PM) following the program as a symbol of solidarity with Dr. King’s Beloved Community. To purchase Luminaries, email [email protected].

For more information about the Community Coalition on Race, visit www.communitycoalitiononrace.org.

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