Mayor Elizabeth Patterson speaks at the 4th annual Benicia MLK Day Celebration.

BENICIA – As we enter Black History Month, and reflect on the African American story and contribution to our country’s larger story, here are some pictures from, and a summary of, our fourth annual Benicia MLK Day celebration, held on Martin Luther King Day, January 21, 2019. The event was organized by the Benicia MLK Day Committee, an ad hoc group in town, and generously hosted by Heritage Presbyterian Church which provided much support and its sanctuary to a full house of attendees.

The program began with a Welcome from Reverand Henry Sun. Jady Montgomery, on behalf of Benicia MLK Day Committee, thanked everyone for coming to Pause, Remember and Reflect, before introducing Mayor Elizabeth Patterson who shared her perspective on King’s message and its relevance today, for Benicia and our country, along with some personal, heartfelt reflections.

Attendees of the 4th annual Benicia MLK Day Celebration reflect on the life of Dr. King at Heritage Presbyterian Church on Jan. 21.

Mary Susan Gast emceed the program and began by asking “What Brings Us All Here Today,” inviting those so moved to share thoughts and experiences related to Dr. King and the civil rights movement. Excerpts from speeches, and many varied quotes of Dr. King, were read on several of his recurring themes:

Speakers honored Dr. King at the Benicia MLK Day Celebration at Heritage Presbyterian Church.

“The Calling — A Drum Major for Justice,” “Revolution of Values,” and “The Fierce Urgency of Now.” Readers were, Rachelle Jackson of Vallejo, Vice President of the local NAACP chapter, Ruby Piper Dean, Karis Wright, Reverend Sun, Liam Madigan, Randy Wright, and Bobby Richardson.

Two reenactments from Benicia writer and storyteller, Linda Wright, brought Coretta Scott King to life with reflections from her beginning relationship with Dr. King in Boston and their later decision to remain in Montgomery, Alabama, after the bombing of their home. Everyone was captivated by history coming alive.

Throughout the program Ms. Gast led everyone in standing to sing songs from the civil rights movement still powerful and relevant today, accompanied by Andrea McFarland who added music throughout the evening.

Attendees of the Benicia MLK Day Celebration sing songs from the Civil Rights movement.

 A slide show and prompts, provided expertly by Bob Fentress, helped everyone engage together.

Jimmie Jackson, President of the local NAACP chapter shared thoughts and sentiments for the path forward and revitalizing a relationship with the Benicia community for common goals and interests. A final poem and pray was provided by Linda Moore of Vallejo. There was much animated fellowship afterwards, and refreshments generously provided by Heritage Presbyterian in the reception hall.

Video of the event, generously provided by Constance Beutel, can be found on You Tube (search: Benicia MLK Day 2019) — both a seven minute montage of excerpts, and a 50-minute version of most of the program are posted there. The MLK Day Committee welcomes all offerings of ideas or help with the planning and execution of Benicia’s 2020 MLK Day event. Contact JadyMontgomery@gmail.com.

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