Submitted by Joanthan Allen
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The New Mount Olive Baptist Church was filled with reverence, inspiration, and a call to action as the Zeta Alpha Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. hosted the 49th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Celebration. With the theme “Remembering! Celebrate! Act! Move! A New Day and A New Challenge!”, the event honored the legacy of Dr. King and inspired the community to continue the fight for justice and equality. The keynote speaker, Rev. Dr. Ezra L. Tillman, Jr. of First Baptist Church Piney Grove, delivered a powerful message that resonated with the audience. He emphasized that true progress requires not just remembrance, but active participation in the pursuit of justice, declaring, “We must not only honor Dr. King’s dream with our words but with our deeds to ensure that every generation stands stronger on the foundation he laid.”
Chapter President Brother Tony Aranha reflected on the impact of the event and stated that “Dr. Brother Tillman’s words reminded us that we are the torchbearers of Dr. King’s legacy. It is our responsibility to keep moving forward, to act with purpose, and to be the change we seek in our communities.” Dr. Tillman encouraged those in attendance to not only celebrate the progress made but to continue striving for justice in their daily lives. The program was a testament to the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s ongoing commitment to community service, youth development, and advocacy. The Alpha’s Men of Tomorrow participants are also recognized at the community event. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. was instrumental in the creation of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial in Washington, D.C.
A special acknowledgment was given to Brother Judge Michel A. Robinson, who served as chairman for the event. His leadership and dedication ensured that this year’s celebration was impactful and memorable. Brother Judge Robinson’s guidance helped make this a momentous event, that truly honored the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy. The evening concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among attendees, as everyone left remembering the past and motivated to act to create a better future.
