Marshall Park Hosts Annual MLK Wreath-Laying Ceremony Amid a Call for Vision and Justice
In a solemn yet galvanizing ceremony, Charlotte honored the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the annual wreath-laying event in Marshall Park. Against the crisp January air, a diverse crowd of community leaders, residents, and clergy gathered to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring vision of justice and unity.
The event featured speeches from local leaders, a stirring sermon from Reverend Dr. Thomas Farrow Jr., and soul-stirring performances by the Caldwell Presbyterian Church Choir. Organized by the Charlotte Community Relations Committee and supported by sponsors including Atrium Health, Food Lion, and Bank of America, the event underscored the progress made and the work that remains to be done.
Mayor Vi Lyles: A Call for Safety, Value, and Opportunity
Mayor Vi Lyles opened the ceremony with remarks that balanced optimism with urgency. “Dr. King taught us that real change begins with each one of us,” she said. Acknowledging the city’s role in fostering equity, Lyles reminded attendees of a poignant historical connection: “It’s a little-known fact that instead of coming to Charlotte, Dr. King went to Memphis. He gave his life when he could have been here with us.”
Lyles emphasized Charlotte’s current challenges and opportunities, saying, “We must create a city where everyone feels safe, valued, and heard.” She urged the community to embrace Dr. King’s vision of “justice, equality, peace, and opportunity,” framing the new year as a time for commitment and action.
Leigh Altman: Progress and Work Ahead
Mecklenburg County Commissioner Vice Chair Leigh Altman followed, offering reflections on the county’s strides in advancing social justice. Quoting Dr. King, she reminded the audience, “The time is always right to do the right thing.”
Altman acknowledged the achievements made possible by community partnerships but did not shy away from the challenges ahead. “Great work still lies ahead,” she said, urging continued dedication from residents and stakeholders.
Sponsors Highlight Community Impact
Representatives from event sponsors shared how their organizations embody Dr. King’s values:
- Patrick Crockett, Atrium Health: Standing near the future medical school in the Pearl District, Crockett emphasized the transformative power of health equity. “Dr. King believed in justice, equality, and the power of service. These are values we strive to embody every day,” he said.
- Garland Scarborough, Food Lion: Filling in for Latonya King, Scarborough reflected on Food Lion’s legacy of community investment. “Dr. King’s vision was more than a vision—it was a call to action for future generations. As your neighborhood grocery store, we’ll continue to be your community partner,” Scarborough pledged.
- Jonathan Hill, Bank of America: Hill, Senior VP and CSR Technology Program Manager, described MLK Day as “a holiday that represents inclusion.” Quoting activist Shirley Chisholm, he added, “Service is the rent you pay for room on this earth.”
Reverend Dr. Thomas Farrow Jr.: “Renewing Our Commitment to Seeing Clearly”
Reverend Dr. Farrow’s keynote address was the emotional centerpiece of the event. Grounding his remarks in Mark 8, he spoke about the need to “see clearly” in a world still plagued by injustice.
“Even in 2025, there are those who say race doesn’t matter,” Farrow said, critiquing the denial of systemic inequities. “Race shouldn’t matter, but the simple truth is, it does. To claim otherwise is to deny reality.”
Using the biblical story of a blind man healed by Jesus, Farrow drew parallels to modern struggles with racial blindness. “You see trees where you should see people,” he said, urging the audience to confront biases and acknowledge inequalities.
Farrow reminded listeners of the progress made by past generations, quoting a hymn: “We’ve come this far by faith, leaning on the Lord.” Yet, he cautioned against complacency: “We need to see color not just to honor those who lived in the shadows but to ensure those shadows never reemerge.”
Music and Unity
The Caldwell Presbyterian Church Choir elevated the ceremony with performances of “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” In a moment of collective strength, attendees joined hands to sing “We Shall Overcome,” forming a symbolic Unity Circle.
Dolores Reid-Smith, chair of the MLK Planning Committee, acknowledged the contributions of volunteers, clergy, and sponsors. “None of this would be possible without your support,” she said, recognizing the individuals and organizations behind the event.
A Vision for the Future
Sam Smith Jr., chair of the Community Relations Committee, concluded with a reflection on the day’s theme: “You see trees where you should see people. That’s a line I’ll be reflecting on for days to come.”
Reverend Dr. John Cleghorn, Senior Minister of Caldwell Presbyterian Church, closed the ceremony with a prayer invoking Dr. King’s legacy. “When people plot evil, God’s people must plan good,” he reminded the crowd, calling for continued vigilance in the fight for justice.
Gratitude to Sponsors
This event was made possible by the support of Tryon Medical Partners, providing team-based, personalized primary care across Charlotte. With locations in Ballantyne, Gaston, Huntersville, Matthews, Pineville, SouthPark, Steele Creek, Uptown, Waverly, and the Women’s Center, Tryon emphasizes “creating stronger relationships.” Learn more at tryonmed.com.
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Jack Beckett
Senior Writer, Charlotte Mercury
Fueled by coffee and curiosity, Jack delivers the stories that matter most to Charlotteans. From politics to real estate to zoning, explore it all at cltmercury.com. Always last to breaking news, always first in thoughtful reporting. ☕
