Celebrating King

Cape Girardeau has been graced with a wealth of events celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

They have included two breakfasts, a humanitarian luncheon, a community celebration at St. James AME Church and a youth gala at the mall. Choirs, soloists and speakers have extolled King and the rights he fought and died for.

The cover story in the Southeast Missourian's OFF! magazine this month asked black musicians and community activists how King's life has affected them.

They said their lives were changed by King's life.

"No kid is born racist. I'm always going to instill in others that you treat everyone with respect," said Jarred Harris, who plays the bass in both a rock band and the Southeast Symphonic Orchestra.

The last of the community events will be Tuesday night's speech at the Show Me Center by the civil-rights leader's son, Martin Luther King III.

Sikeston, Mo., native Neal Boyd, who has performed at Carnegie Hall, will sing during the evening. Boyd collects King's writings and keeps a picture of him on his bedroom wall.

The dream is being kept alive.