San Antonio to celebrate 20th anniversary of nation's largest MLK March

Momentum is building for the 20th anniversary of the nation’s largest MLK March on Monday, January 15.

The annual MLK March starts at 10:00 a.m. at the MLK Freedom Bridge near the Eastside Boys and Girls Club in the 3500 block of MLK Drive. Staying consistent with the legacy of Dr. King, more than 100,000 people of all races and ages are expected to make the nearly three-mile march. The diverse crowd will journey through San Antonio’s eastside, bringing a walking tribute to one of the greatest civil rights leaders to a close at Pittman-Sullivan Park, 1101 Iowa.

Following the march, the MLK Commemorative Program will begin at noon with keynote speaker James W.E. Dixon II, bishop of Community of Faith Church in Houston. Dixon is founder of the Dominion Community Development Corporation, Inc. in Houston. Dominion CDC created Good Gang U.S.A for youth, Dominion Preparatory School, Dominion Academy Charter School, a homebuyer counseling and education program, and a $60 million master-planned community. The Commemorative Program also will feature a highlight performance by Austin gospel recording artist Chester Baldwin. Baldwin and his mass choir are marking their second appearance at San Antonio’s tribute to Dr. King following a performance in 2004.

Not only will the crowd be entertained and inspired, those who are searching for jobs will have the opportunity to speak to representatives of various companies at the first ever major MLK Job Fair. The fair also will take place at the park on the day of the march.

A variety of other events are scheduled for the 2007 MLK Commemoration, including the:

• MLK Interfaith Service to benefit MLK scholarships;

• MLK Distinguished Achievement Award;

• MLK Art Symposium;

• Trinity University lecture series, featuring legendary rapper Chuck D.;

• MLK Hip Hop Summit, focusing on AIDS, politics, and hip hop;

• and MLK Wreath-Laying Ceremony.

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