Toccoa Marks MLK Day
Stephens County marks Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Monday, activities honoring Dr. King concluded with the annual Interfaith Service at Trinity C.M.E. Church, followed by the march from the church to Toccoa City Hall.
At Toccoa City Hall, the winner of this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest read their winning speech.
Sheerica Ware (right) prepares to give her speech Monday on the steps of Toccoa City Hall
This year’s winner was Sheerica Ware, a senior at Stephens County High School.
Ware said that while people know the story of Dr. King, she asks if they know the movement and if they live the movement.
She said at the end of the day, we are the movement.
“Our parents, our seniors, but most of all, the youth,” said Ware. “We, as young people, have to empower ourselves and believe in our ability. We have to step out on faith and follow the guidance of our mentors who have paved the way for us. It is up to us to keep and achieve the goal that we have set based on our gifts fulfilled by our Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Ware said people need to dedicate themselves, believe in themselves, and assert themselves because that is what communities need.
She also called on people to look at their friends and encourage them to step up for their communities as well.
Marchers go from Trinity C.M.E. Church to Toccoa City Hall as part of MLK commemorations in Toccoa Monday
However, she said most importantly, people need to look at themselves.
“Be the change you want to see in your community,” said Ware. “Live the dream that Martin Luther King, Jr. and so many others have fought for you to be able to have. Be the you that inspires and uplifts. Be the you, no, be the leader that values and respects their community.”
Ware said she hoped her speech would be uplifting and inspiring and empower people, especially youth.
Monday’s service and march concluded a series of activities throughout the first part of January honoring Dr. King.
Other activities included an art contest, the essay contest, a talent show, a musical event, and an event centered around “Senior Citizens Reflections.”