MLK program to support scholarship funding Jan. 16

The Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice will pay homage to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and focus on the impact young people had on the civil rights movement during a program titled Supporting Our Youth, Defending Our History from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 16, at Epworth United Methodist Church in Rehoboth Beach. Doors will open at 6:15 p.m.

The program features a variety of powerhouse performances and inspirational speakers. Paul Williams, broadcast meteorologist, will deliver the keynote address. Also appearing will be the Singing and Praying Bands of Maryland and Delaware, the Alliance Singers of CAMP Rehoboth Chorus, the Cape Henlopen High School Band drum line and the Milford High School Choir.

The Rev. John Moore of Dover will deliver his recitation of King’s “Be an Architect for Humanity” speech, and Gwendolyn Miller will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Laurel Councilwoman RogJenea Fisher will perform a tribute to Rosa Parks. Local youth will speak about heroes of the civil rights movement such as John Lewis, Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer and Andrew Young.

Speakers include Sussex community leaders Charlotte King, SDARJ founder, and the Rev. Marjorie Belmont, pastor of Israel United Methodist Church in Lewes. The emcee will be Calvin Jackson, president of the Cape Henlopen Educational Foundation.

Proceeds will benefit SDARJ’s scholarship program for deserving youth in Sussex County. Joseph Lawson, SDARJ executive director, said, “With all the current cutbacks in services, supporting our youth is one of the most important things we can do. Public engagement is vital.”

To learn more, go to sdarj.org.