MLK Jr.'s legacy lives on in Murfreesboro

Several Martin Luther King Jr. Day observances and ceremonies were held in Rutherford County on Monday, highlighted by the annual march in downtown Murfreesboro.

In La Vergne, the city hosted an event featuring MTSU President Dr. Sidney McPhee as one of its keynote speakers alongside community leader and educator Gloria Bonner, who served the university for 32 years and was granted the title of dean emeritus upon her retirement.

Once the Murfreesboro march came to an end, NAACP State President Gloria Sweet-Love addressed participants outside Patterson Park Community Center. A holiday program was held inside for students and youth.

The Discovery Center at Murfree Spring offered free admission and told King's story through the arts, including booths on voting rights and a storytime focused on civil rights. Harlem Globetrotters star Scooter Christensen also made an appearance.

The day's events ended at Middle Tennessee State University's Student Union Building with a commemorative ceremony and traditional candlelight vigil. State Rep. Harold Love Jr. delivered the keynote address. A gospel choir performance and a tribute to King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, were also part of the program.

Reach Mealand Ragland-Hudgins at 615-278-5160 or at mragland@dnj.com.