Cultural coalition hosts Martin Luther King March in Hermiston
Published 5:00 am Wednesday, January 15, 2025
- Hermiston City Manager Byron Smith gives the welcoming address during the Martin Luther King March on Jan. 16, 2023, at Hermiston City Hall. This year’s event is Jan. 20, 2025, and includes a short peace walk in downtown Hermiston followed by a program at city hall.
HERMISTON — The Hermiston Cultural Awareness Coalition invites the community to join them during the annual Martin Luther King March.
The event includes a peace walk and program on Monday, Jan. 20, beginning at 11 a.m. with opening remarks by coalition President Dave Gracia, Mayor Doug Primmer and City Manager Byron Smith at Hermiston City Hall, 180 N.E. Second St. After the brief march through downtown Hermiston, special speakers will include Dennis Burke, who will share reflections on his experience during the 1963 March on Washington. In addition, Dawn Rome will share inspiring remarks about the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
The program also features a performance by the Hermiston High School jazz band. Also, the coalition will present its 2025 scholarships to area seniors.
A grassroots movement that began in 2000 as the Black International Awareness Club, the coalition’s mission is to promote the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. and to support diversity and equality in the Hermiston area. In addition to the annual MLK March, the group hosts a Juneteenth Celebration in the summer.
For more information, search www.facebook.com/hcac2000 or call Gracia at 541-571-7874.
