BY LANCE GAITHER

lance.gaither@bluegrassnewsmedia.com

Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations for the holiday begin at noon on Monday, Jan. 16 at City Hall with a community march that will end at the Jennie Rogers Community Center.

“It’s another opportunity for the community to come together,” said Danville Mayor James J.H. Atkins. “Celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. King keeps his dream alive of people coming together and recognizing each other for their value regardless of their race, age, gender, or orientation. It’s a way of highlighting an inclusive community.”

Further celebrations of the holiday continue at the Jennie Rogers Community Center at 12:45 P.M. There will a speech from Kentucky House of Representatives Minority Leader Derrick Graham, poetry readings from winners of the Frank X Walker Literary Festival, and performances from the Boyle County and Danville Independent School District choirs. Free t-shirts and boxed lunches will be provided while supplies last.

Assistant Principal of Toliver Intermediate School Danny Goodwin played a large role in getting the celebrations organized.

“We wanted to pull from everyone from all aspects of the community,” Goodwin said. “We want bring everyone together to celebrate Martin Luther King.”

At 7 P.M., Centre College is hosting a Martin Luther King Convocation with a keynote speech by Centre alumnus and Senior Policy Analyst at The Council of State Governments Dexter Horne.

ASL interpretation services are provided at all events.