Inspired by a quote from King’s memoir, Stride Toward Freedom,’’ the theme of Lebanon’s 40th MLK celebration is Stride Toward Freedom with Unity, Action and Service.
“I am convinced that men hate each other because they fear each other,” wrote King in his memoir.
“They fear each other because they don’t know each other, and they don’t know each other because they don’t communicate with each other, and they don’t communicate with each other because they are separated from each other.”
The program put together by the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Coalition of Lebanon, was hosted by Sara Davis. The Rev. Corey Wagonfield, pastor of Resurrection Lutheran Church, will give the keynote address.
Under the direction of Jay Mills, the Lebanon Community Choir performed.
During the program the Drum Major awards will be presented:
Youth Leader of Tomorrow, Kaitlny Burger, Lebanon High School: Burger advocates for students with disabilities and mental health needs.
A member of the Hope Squad, Burger is working with Key Club to plan a dress drive for students who can’t afford dresses for prom, homecoming Daylight Prom for students with multiple disability.
Adult Community Leader, Beverly Kinney, (posthumously): A member of the Resurrection Lutheran Church, Kinney was involved in the coalition, the Lebanon Food Pantry, Warren County Democrats, Better Angels, along with volunteering at Countryside YMCA and Habitat for Humanity in Warren County. A retired educator, Kinney was killed a year ago after being struck by the driver of a Cincinnati Metro bus while walking in a marked crosswalk.
Outstanding Organization: League of Women Voters, Warren County unit; Family Promise of Warren County, Neighborhood Bridges of Lebanon
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