By Justin Felts
“We have a Dream!,” was the rally cry of those participating in the annual Martin Luther King Day Unity March in downtown Spokane on Monday. Despite the political undertones and feelings of the day, the march led by costumed dancers from Grant Elementary School drew a larger crowd than past years, topping 3,000 attendees, and putting the Spokane Convention Center over capacity.
Spokanites of all ages, races, and backgrounds turned out for the annual event, and to hear a rousing rendition of Dr. King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech given by Rev. Percy Watkins. This is Rev. Watkins’ 35th year giving the speech. A line formed after the speech with young and old attendees hoping to meet the reverend before he left for his next presentation. The crowd spilled out of the building during the speech, and then took to the street for Unity March which stretched around the parade circuit for over 45 minutes.
The day’s events were special for the Martin Luther King Jr. Family Outreach Center in another way as well. The Outreach Center held a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house for their new location at the East Central Community Center at 500 S. Stone. The move will provide the Outreach Center with a larger area and the ability to continue to provide great services to the community.
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