The 42nd annual Kona Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration returns Jan. 15 at Makaeo Events Pavilion at Old Kona Airport Park.
The community event starts with free lunch at noon followed by the opening of the program at 1:15 p.m. marking the anniversary of Dr. King’s birthday and to honor his life, work, and legacy.
“As the struggle for human and civil rights continue to challenge our nation and the world, this event provides our community the hope, and encouragement that we need during these challenging times. Please join us to rededicate ourselves to the vision of Dr. King – racial equality, non-discrimination, and social justice through non-violent means,” organizers said.
The program will include songs, dances, and speeches from diverse members of our community, including artwork from local school children. This event is organized by the Kona Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Planning Committee and the generous contributions of community members.
Co-founders Virginia Halliday and Mamie Bramlett started celebrating the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with friends in 1981 at the Old Kona Airport Park in with a handful of participants. Over the decades, the gathering has grown into a community tradition attracting hundreds of people to honor the civil rights icon’s legacy.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day was declared a federal holiday in 1983. The holiday is celebrated on the third Monday each January in honor of King’s birthday on Jan. 15, 1929. The day is set aside to honor King’s life and legacy. Many celebrate the holiday by volunteering and participating in acts of service.
For more information, contact Jasmin Kiernan at (808) 756-4111, or jasmink01@aol.com.