Fox 40 WICZ
1/16/12
Kate Thornton
http://www.wicz.com/news2005/viewarticle.asp?a=21759
Folks from across the area of different races and backgrounds joined together Monday night in a “Peace March” in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The march started at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. statue in Downtown Binghamton and concluded at the First Congregational Church on the corner of Main and Front Streets.
A remembrance service celebrated the life of the slain civil rights leader, and all that he stood for.
Program Director of the Broome County Martin Luther King Commission, Camille Jones, said it was a time for everyone to come together as equals. “This is one time a year where you can get all races and religions together and agree on one thing and try to figure out a way to make a difference in our community,” said Jones.
The service included the kids as well. A vibrant youth march in the church led by a trumpet player playing “When the Saints Go Marching In” got the whole crowd in the spirit.
Scott Otey of Endicott was in attendance with his two sons, Nicholas and Matthew. Otey said he likes to take advantage of opportunities to teach his sons important lessons. “They get to get a different perspective on different things. They get to hear different speakers. They get a whole different flavor on the Martin Luther King celebration,” said Otey.
Matthew said he was thrilled to see so many families come out and learn about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Nicholas said he liked learning more about those who were part of the civil rights movement. “I feel bad for the people back then because they didn’t have as many rights and they couldn’t do as many things that we can now because we’re equal,” said Nicholas.
Politicians such as Mayor Matt Ryan, City Councilwoman Lea Webb, County Executive Debbie Preston, and Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo were in attendance as well and spoke about how still today the community must remember all that Dr. King believed in.
Mayor Ryan talked about the Occupy movement across the nation and said he thinks Dr. King would be in favor of the 99%.
