Black History Month came early in Lakewood, as the Lakewood Interfaith Council hosted its inaugural Martin Luther King Art & Essay Contest in honor of Dr. King's birthday last month at the Lakewood Family YMCA.
Led by Dr. Can
dace Kelly, the LIF Council's first event, themed "Keeping the Dream Alive," brought together children of all ages to celebrate Dr. King's legacy and understanding.
"This is how we keep the dream alive, by celebrating diversity, unity and keeping Dr. King's dream and words alive," said Kelly. "This event served as a platform for creative expression but also as a testament of LIF's dedication to promoting unity, understanding and the ideals championed by Dr. King for us all."
Keeping the Dream Alive was attended by all five Lakewood council members, and by a representative of Congresswoman Nanette Barragan.
Kelly was happy to see so much enthusiasm behind this inaugural event, not just from children and their families, but from the community and from elected officials. "It is up to us to keep the dream alive," she said. "The event's success is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the collective commitment to fostering a brighter, more harmonious future."
Art Contest Winners:
Logan Boone, Audrey Burke, Daxton Carp, Laeden McMorris and Ariah Tisby
Essay Contest Winners:
Olajide Bamishigbin, Ferris Ignacio, Lilienne Leyv, Zoey Randon and Malachi Smith