On January 19, the Rotterdam Community Center hosted the MLK Observance Concert, a powerful and moving event focused on building community and reflecting on the ongoing work for civil rights. The Schenectady County Human Rights Commission planned and led this special event and featured the Albany Voices of Pride choir and a series of impactful speeches from local leaders and advocates.
The theme, "Building Community Within the County," emphasized unity and progress in the civil rights movement. Speakers included Angela T. Rella, Constituent Representative from Congressman Paul D. Tonko’s Office, Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara, Schenectady County Legislator Omar Sterling McGill, City of Schenectady School Board Member Jamaica Miles, and Albany County Chief City Auditor Dorcey L. Appryls, with closing words from Arthur Butler, Schenectady Human Rights Director.
Mr. Butler shared personal anecdotes about his own experiences with racism and segregation. He emphasized that these are not problems of a bygone era but ongoing struggles that affect individuals of all demographics, underscoring the importance of solidarity in addressing injustice.
The speakers addressed the significance of unity and the ongoing fight for civil rights. A slideshow of historical photographs highlighted not only iconic moments from the civil rights movement but also often-overlooked images such as fire hoses, peaceful protestors being attacked by dogs, Dr. King in Birmingham prison, lynchings, and his assassination. These powerful images were paired with speeches reflecting the challenges of those times and the relevance they still hold today.
The event also featured a spoken word poetry performance by Latasha "Freedom" McBride, in front of her photography work from her series Broken Concrete. This series captured the harsh realities of homelessness, poverty, and other community struggles through her lens. Her performance underscored the intersectionality of identity and the ongoing battle for justice in our communities.
The Human Rights Commissioned worked diligently to honor MLK's legacy and remind the community of the work still ahead. As the Albany Voices of Pride choir took the stage to close the event, their beautiful performances left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. Despite the heavy snowstorm outside, over 160 people came together to show their solidarity, making it clear that the community is committed to supporting one another, no matter the obstacles. The concert not only highlighted the progress we've made but also reminded us of the continued effort required to build a more just and equitable future.
We look forward to continuing to work alongside our community members, inspired by the work that was done on January 19, to further the mission of the Human Rights Commission and ensure that every voice is heard in the fight for justice.
You can find more coverage of the event here: