The Tyler Legacy School marching band gets ready to perform during the 37th annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in downtown Tyler in 2023. (Ana Conejo/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

The annual Martin Luther King Jr. March, set for Monday, Jan. 20 at 9 a.m., offers an opportunity to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The community is invited to honor Dr. King’s legacy and promote unity.

The march will begin at the parking lot of Tyler Public Library (201 S. College Avenue) then make its way to the Catholic Church (423 S. Broadway Avenue). Organized by Tyler Together Race Relations, the annual march provides a moment of reflection on Dr. King’s vision of civil rights, peace, and social justice.

“Dr. King’s dream of equality and justice remains as relevant today as ever,” Nickalous McGrew, President of Tyler Together Race Relations, said in a press release. “We invite everyone to join us in honoring his legacy and continuing the work he began.”

This year’s theme, “Mission Possible: Protect freedom, justice, & democracy in the spirit of nonviolence,” emphasizes the importance of unity and collective action in fostering a more equitable society.

Participants of all ages are encouraged to join in the walk, which will feature a keynote address by Dr. Mary Breaux Wright, live performances by the Texas College Choir and Tyler ISD bands, and an awards presentation to Tyler ISD students for the annual art contest.

This event is free and open to the public, with schools, churches, families, and community groups especially encouraged to participate. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.