Michiganders honor Martin Luther King Jr.'s impact on Detroit: "Our focus is on helping people"

Nearly 60 years after his death, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and legacy are being celebrated and honored by newer generations. Rev. Richard White III, pastor at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing community needs, stating, "None of us can do everything, but all of us can do something, and the needs are great."

At Wayne County Community College's Northwest Campus, the Detroit chapter of the NAACP organized a day-long celebration focused on King's significant impact on the city. Rev. White highlighted the church's mission to help people, echoing Dr. King's commitment to community service and social support.

As the leader of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Detroit, which shares a historical connection with King’s church in Montgomery, Alabama, White reinforced the idea that honoring King’s legacy involves active commitment to serving others. He called on attendees to recognize the sacrifices made for civil rights and to contribute to ongoing societal progress.

Volunteer Antoinette McGarvin reflected on the bittersweet nature of the day's service, coinciding with President Donald Trump's inauguration. She urged participants to think about the future rather than focusing solely on differing beliefs, emphasizing the need for proactive movement.

Attendees discussed the potential impacts of new political leadership on the community, with White encouraging continued questioning and effort toward achieving desired changes. He concluded with a poignant reminder that hope and perseverance are essential, stating, “We can't give up. We can never lose hope.”