Keeping the Dream alive

“A day on, not a day off!” said James Conway Sr. of the Universal Lodge #1 of Alexandria who came to march with members of the Mighty 31st Masonic District of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Richmond and the 30th and 29th Masonic Districts in the 2024 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. March & Celebration in Leesburg Jan. 15.

“It’s cold, snowing and 29 degrees, but we still pressed through and had a good time remembering Dr. King, fellowshipping and making memories,” Conway said.

Hundreds of community members marched in the 33rd annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade from the courthouse to Douglass High School. CEO of Cyber Human Capital Renee Small emceed the program welcoming speakers that included former Douglass High School teacher Adolph Sims, Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk, MLK Diversity-Engagement Foundation Scholarship Chair Rory Miott and Board of Supervisors Chair Phyllis Randall.

The Tuscarora High School drama department, the Douglass High School Community Choir and Wesley and Christa Fields performed at the event. MLK Diversity-Engagement Foundation awarded two community service scholarships to Loudoun County high school seniors focused on giving back to their community. Nathan Jenkins and Nicole Smith earned this year’s scholarships for $1,500.