Austin celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
It has been 48 years since Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was killed. Monday, activists and, people from all walks of life in Austin remembered the civil rights leader and the legacy he left behind.
The sound of unity echoed across the UT campus, as the choir sang. Hundreds of people congregated at the statue of Martin Luther King Jr.
“He symbolizes unity, equal rights, improving ourselves and coming together,” Erika Pierce, attendee, said.
They came together, to remember, reflect, and identify the needs of the next generation.
“It takes more than just a day,” Sarah Harper, attendee, said.
As participants marched to the south steps of the Capitol, Harper joined in. She reflects on her school, Saint Stevens Episcopal, and the racial boundaries they destroyed when they integrated in the 1950's.
“When Bishop Hines founded our school, he was trying to carry on the message Dr. King's carrying on,” Harper said.
People of all races, ages and socioeconomic backgrounds gathered and remembered that the Civil Rights Movement was not that long ago. Many who faced it are still alive today.
“We want to tell the kids how privileged they are to live in a day and age where schools aren't segregated,” Chris Lowry, attendee, said.
“I miss him. I always wanted to meet him when I was a little boy,” eight-year-old Jose Shepperd, said.
Participants marched to Huston-Tillotson University with letters spelling out “we believe." It's that message that will continue to resonate in their hearts, despite the plethora of work that's still left to be done.
“Even people like me who believe in Dr. King's message and want it to live on, I think we still have a long way to go,” Harper said.