Nearly six decades after Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led thousands of demonstrators through the streets during the Civil Rights movement, his memory will be honored Saturday by the people of Paso Robles.
The annual March for Unity, which is now in its 13th year, commemorates the life and work of MLK as he fought for race equality.
"We have such a fun time walking and marching together," City of Paso Robles Admin. Assistant Lovella Walker. "It's unity, diversity, inclusion. You see so many different ages, so many different background coming to walk. One march we had 200 people, this march we expect about 150 to 200."
This Central Coast gathering aims to build unity among people of all ages, races, and walks of life with a message that just one person can make a difference.
"We ask the community to examine their power as one person. What can you do with your power?" Walker said. "One person can influence another person. That person can influence a group. A group can influence a community. A community can influence the nation. The nation can influence the world. Martin was one man who influenced quite a few people. With him, we have a national holiday because he was about healing, he was about helping America, he was about equality.
This year's them is The Power of One and the keynote speaker is Paso Robles Councilwoman Maria Garcia, who will share her story of dedication to public service.
The March for Unity takes place at noon, starting from the intersection of 21st and Riverside Ave.
A trio of church choirs from First Baptist, Second Baptist, and North County Christian will sing at the event at Flamson Middle School on Spring Street.
An art and essay contest highlighting the life and work of MLK gives students the chance to compete for a modest cash prize.
And a dance performance by local students follows the march.
The event last from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
