Archived News Release from 2003

For Immediate Release

Third Annual Freedom Festival in Redwood City to Honor Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rekindle his Legacy of Peace, Justice, and Freedom

Redwood City, CA - December 23, 2003 - For nearly two decades, Redwood City’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee has organized a community event in honor of Dr. King’s struggle for justice and peace, in order to bring his ideals to life in today’s society. This year marks the 3rd Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. ‘Freedom Festival’ which will honor Dr. King’s memory and celebrate the legacy of his great efforts for civil rights.

The community is invited to join in remembering and rallying to his ideals of freedom on Monday, January 19, 2004 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. This free family event takes place at Redwood City’s Veteran’s Memorial Senior Center, 1455 Madison Avenue.

“This year’s Freedom Festival will help bring Dr. King’s important messages to a new generation, and to carry forward his legacy of seeking equality among all people,” said Jeff Ira, Mayor of Redwood City, who will inaugurate the event. “Together, we will bridge cultural difference and celebrate the wonderful diversity in our community.”

Here are a few of the exciting, inspirational, fun, and educational activities for the entire family:

• Dramatization of “Fanny Lou Hamer” by performer Marijo
• Axis Dance Company
• Mt. Zion Baptist Church Praise Dancers
• Derique’s Circus Arts
• Carlmont High School Polynesian Dancers
• Poetry by Kalamu Chache
• Redwood City Freedom Festival Interfaith Choir
• Exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement
• Educational Displays and Presentations
• Dr. King’s Inspirational Words
• Music, food, kids’ activities, and much more

This Redwood City event is co-sponsored by the Redwood City Friends of the Library, Alsace Development Corporation, San Mateo Credit Union, SBC, First United Methodist Church of Redwood City, Margaret Marshall, Provident Credit Union, and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. Please visit www.redwoodcity.org/special/mlk for more information about this event.

Visit Redwood City’s website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, and City government.

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Teri Chin
Human Services Manager
(650) 780-7510