Leaders: Changed Boston reflects influence of MLK
Hundreds gathered for an annual convocation in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.’s 90th birthday, remembering why the civil rights leader’s message still needs to be taught today and how his influence has shaped the city.
“He reminds us of who we truly are as a country and as human beings and our mandate, which I think is so paramount right now, that in spite of our differences we are stronger together,” said the Rev. Jeffrey Brown. Brown said King pushed the country to come together in times of division.
“I think we are at the point right now where there is a divide among ourselves about where we stand but also how we stand together,” Brown said. “We have to remember we can’t stand idly by and watch things happen, it was one of the grievous sins Dr. King preached about.”
Several city and state officials were present at the event, including U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz, police Commissioner William Gross and several city councilors. Thunderous applause filled the room as Brown pointed out how history was being made, honoring the African-American leaders.
“His spirit still lives,” Gross said, “So, that resonates with all of the seniors that you see here that paved the way so I could be here in this capacity, Congresswoman Pressley could be here in the capacity, District Attorney (Rachael) Rollins, Suffolk County Sheriff (Steven W.) Tompkins. That’s all through the spirit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and his spirit passes through everybody.”
“So, if you see this congregation today, it’s all God’s children,” he added. “Black, white, Latino, Vietnamese, that’s the spirit we’re talking about. The importance is look how much has changed in Boston. People of color are in the face of City Hall, City Council, the State House and in law enforcement. We’re getting things done … so it’s changed Boston.”
Suffolk County DA Rollins also gave the convocation address, talking about what helped her rise to her position as the first colored woman to be the district attorney: thankfulness, deliberation, service, failure and faith. She spoke about seeing racial disparity and knowing what she needed to do for the black and brown residents of Boston.
“Instead of sitting there yelling at my television, I decided to roll up my sleeves, learn how to run for office and win,” Rollins said. “My office represents everyone.”