Columbus Celebrates MLK Legacy at Annual Dream Lives Event

By Janell Williams

Hundreds gathered at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center on Saturday, Jan. 18, for the annual Dream Lives MLK Celebration, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The event featured a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers, musical performances and discussions reflecting King’s contributions to civil rights and social justice. Among the highlights was a keynote address by legendary musician and hip-hop trailblazer MC Lyte.

“I have people praying for me. So, without me even knowing, I made it past hurdles of what women couldn’t do in hip-hop before I even knew that I wasn’t really supposed to,” Lyte said, reflecting on her career and King’s influence on her journey. “It’s about what you allow yourself to believe about what others say about you. Dr. King didn’t believe the naysayers. If you told him not to go somewhere, he found a reason to go, because there were people in need of being inspired.”

Musical performances by the Columbus Dream Choir and Rainey McCullers Performing Arts students set an uplifting tone for the celebration. A panel of state and national speakers addressed themes of empowerment, community progress, and the enduring relevance of King’s legacy.

“Dr. King’s vision is still alive and well,” said local business owner Sherricka Day. “We are still experiencing the same kind of racism, so we have to wake up. We can’t sleep on this. We have to keep the dream alive.”

Local artist and designer LaKendra Huckaby emphasized the importance of spreading positivity, saying: “As well-known figures and influencers, we have a responsibility to put as much positivity in the world as we can. We must be aware of what we’re putting out for people to consume.”

Singer-songwriter Marcus Bryant echoed this sentiment.

“I know we live in a world of social media where people think every action needs a reaction. It doesn’t," Bryant said. "We have to protect our minds and protect our peace.”

The event concluded with a call to action, urging attendees to volunteer in their communities and advocate for meaningful change in honor of King’s enduring legacy.