Jan. 15—Members of the Pittsburg County Holiday Commission offer information on activities commemorating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
1 What events are the Pittsburg County Holiday Commission hosting to commemorate Dr. King?
Two events are planned to honor Dr. King, the MLK Commemorative Ceremony and also the MLK Unity Banquet.
The theme for both McAlester events is “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice and Democracy in the Spirit of Non-Violence 365”
2 When and where will the events be held?
The MLK Commemorative Ceremony is set for 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 17, at the Mount Triumph Baptist Church, 408 E. Wyandotte Ave., with the public welcome to attend the free event.
The following evening, the MLK Unity Banquet is set for 6 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, at the McAlester High School Cafeteria, at 1 Buffalo Dr., with the public again welcome to attend.
3 Is there a cost to attend the Unity Banquet?
Tickets for the Unity Banquet are $10 each and are available from members of the Pittsburg County Holiday Commission. Tickets will also be available at the door on the night of the event.
4 Who are featured speakers for the MLK events?
Rev. Aaron Williams, from Mount Nebo Baptist Church @ Bethlehem in Hartshorne, Oklahoma, is this year’s speaker for the Friday, Jan. 17, Commemorative Ceremony at Mount Triumph Baptist Church.
Former Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives and former United States Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma Steve Lewis is the featured speaker for the Saturday, Jan. 18, Unity Banquet at the MHS Cafeteria.
5 What else is included in the programs?
Music will be a part of both events, with the MLK Unity Choir performing Friday and Saturday under the direction of Loise Washington. The MLK Youth Choir, under the direction of Rosalyn Jones, will perform Saturday night at the MLK Unity Banquet.
Also, McAlester Mayor Justin Few issued a proclamation declaring Jan. 20, 2024, as the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Day in McAlester.
—Derrick James