Augusta Plans Series of MLK Events From Jan. 15-25

Augusta will host commemorations for Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. starting Jan. 15 and running through Jan. 25. Events include keynote speakers, choir performances, and a service day.

The Progressive Religious Coalition of Augusta presents its 18th annual commemoration on Jan. 15 at Sacred Heart Cultural Center on 1301 Greene St. The event runs from 6:30 to 8 p.m. with Stacey Floyd-Thomas being the speaker. Floyd-Thomas is a scholar from Vanderbilt Divinity School and a leading voice in liberation and Christian social ethics. The John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School Chorale will perform, along with the Augusta Junior Players.

Paine College, Augusta University, and Augusta Technical College hold a tri-college celebration at Gilbert-Lambuth Memorial Chapel on the Paine College campus on Jan. 16 from noon to 1:00 p.m. Lamell McMorris delivers the keynote address. He founded Phase 2 Consulting and served as its CEO. This year's collection goes to the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History at 1235 15th St.

On Jan. 19, volunteers gather at GAP Ministries, 1240 Ellis St., for a service day. It starts at 11 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m. Organizers want easy-to-open cans that haven't expired, so everyone can use them.

Aiken Technical College and the University of South Carolina Aiken bring Cecil J. Williams to the USCA Convocation Center on Jan. 25. Williams took photos during the Civil Rights Movement. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. for a service fair with area nonprofits and agencies. The main program kicks off at 3 p.m.

"Williams has dedicated his career to preserving the stories of the Civil Rights Movement and those who have fought for justice and equality. His photography has been featured in major national publications and is included in the Smithsonian's collection," according to a news release, per Augusta Good News.