FORT LAUDERDALE — As South Florida looks toward the Martin Luther King Jr. national holiday, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee Inc. (MLKCC), is gearing for the “Change Yourself Before You Change Me” Teen Summit, Saturday, Jan. 19, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center.
The fourth annual summit is part of the center’s MLK Birthday Party that will feature cultural performances, storytelling, arts and crafts, birthday cake and celebrations for preschoolers and elementary school-age students.
The organizers say this year the teens not only will discuss issues that are affecting today’s youth, but also propose solutions to those issues, through open discussions, spoken word, dramatic performances and music. Other highlights will include special invited celebrity guests, a Greek Letter Step Show and historic fashion play.
As part of the summit this year the committee will recognize 10 students who have made a major positive change within their life, or making a difference within their school, community or organization.
To nominate a youth, provide a one page write-up detailing why the nominee is deserving of The Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Committee’s “Change Yourself Before You Change Me” Life Changing Youth Trailblazer Award. Include the nominee’s career/job interest if applicable. Submissions should be sent to renee_bianca1@yahoo.com by Tuesday, Jan. 8. Photos, videos, etc. are encouraged but not required. For more information or to nominate a candidate for the Youth Trailblazer Award, call 754-235-3298 or visit kingholidaycelebration.com, where the list of events for MLK week can be found.
Organizers promise this year’s summit will be bigger, better and even more enlightening than ever, with the participation of such sponsors and speakers as BET, Miami Dolphins Defensive Tackle Tony McDaniel and other South Florida artists.
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day that following Monday, Jan. 21, the county’s biggest King holiday parade, the King Holiday Parade and Non-Violence March, will feature bands, drumlines, floats and thousands of marchers representing local social, civic, cultural and religious organizations. This year’s Grand Marshal will be Tia Norfleet, the first African American Female NASCAR driver.
During the Marching Band Competition and Non-Violence Rally immediately following the parade, marching bands from local high schools will compete in a friendly competition on Dillard High School’s Otis Gray Football field in commemoration of King’s non-violence legacy.
The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee, a Florida-based, volunteer-run 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization established in 2003, claims the mantle of the only organization in Broward County dedicated solely to the promotion of King’s legacy. The mission of MLKCC is to continue King’s ideals and vision through celebration, education and advocacy.
For more information or to nominate a candidate for the Youth Trailblazer Award, call 754-235-3298 or visit kingholidaycelebration.com
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