The morning of Jan. 21, community leaders, church members and residents from across Pearl River County are invited to participate in this year’s annual Martin Luther King Day celebration.

Etta Scott said that this year new groups and churches, such as Resurrection Life Worship Center, are working with long time collaborators Pleasant Valley Baptist Church and Rose of Sharon Church of God in Christ, to organize the biggest celebration.

“I think it’s going to be awesome,” Scott said. “I think Martin Luther King’s dream will be fulfilled here in Pearl River County.”

Elder David Simmons with Rose of Sharon Church of God in Christ said he is expecting a large turnout.

“This is the first time we’ve really had black and white churches come together (for this event),” Simmons said.

The event will be held on Jan. 21, with line up for the parade starting at 9:30 a.m. The parade will start at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church at 501 Weems St., and end at Rose of Sharon, located at 500 N. Beech St. A program will take place after the parade at Rose of Sharon to honor King.

If for some reason there is inclement weather, the program will start at Rose of Sharon at 9:30 a.m.

Organizers of the parade are looking for as much participation in this year’s event as possible, including drill teams, bands, choirs, floats, and individuals.

Additional information about the celebration can be found by calling Ozzie Turner at 601-798-3506.

Dinner and festivities will follow the celebration at J.P. Johnson Park.