Scholarships and service on MLK Day

CRANSTON – The 34th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Breakfast was held on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 16, at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet. Hundreds of area government and faith leaders gathered to honor Rev. King and his ideals at the annual event that included the awarding of scholarships. Speakers included Gov. Gina Raimondo as well as Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, Cranston Mayor Allan Fung and Central Falls Mayor James Diossa along with members of the Rhode Island congressional delegation.

This year’s keynote speaker was the Rev. Dr. Aidsand F. Wright-Riggins, III, executive director emeritus of the American Baptist Home Mission Society. He called for unity in our country. He said there should be no “Red” or “Blue” churches or “Red” or “Blue” states, referring to the political divide in the country. He also called for freedom for all regardless of race, gender or gender preference.

Elsewhere on Jan. 16, Rhode Island for Community and Justice offered a workshop on civil rights. The program featured discussion on “Criminal Justice/Parole and Probation Reform,” “Community Diversion for Juveniles of Color,” “Reporting Hate Crimes,” “Healthcare,” “Bus Fares,” “Driving Privilege License,” “Law Enforcement Training,” and “Voting Reform.”

The Institute for the Study and Practice of Nonviolence “We Have a Dream” program honored King, and Sister Ann Keefe who passed away in 2015.

In addition, Ebenezer Baptist Church in Providence held its annual service dedicated to the memory of King.

– Marty Cooper