Martin Luther King Jr. was wished a happy 91st birthday at both St. Ann Center campuses on the holiday celebrating the life and legacy of the esteemed civil rights leader.
At the Bucyrus Campus, saxophonist and singer Bobby Jiles played and sang some of Dr. King’s favorite songs including “Oh Happy Day,” “Precious Lord Take My Hand” and “Just Stand.” The adult clients took turns at the mic, reading poems with themes of human dignity, equality and strength in unity.
The Stein Campus tribute included remarks about non-violence from Rodican Rose, director of Pastoral Care, and observations about Dr. King from some of the adult clients, including facts about the man who helped unite a divided nation. Even the 2-year-old Butterflies got in on the celebration, helping create a special wall display in Dr. King’s honor.
Among the readings, was this poem by Michael Salinger:
Martin Luther King had an American Dream.
Black and white folks on the same team.
Not separate but equal —rather instead
Together—a nation with freedom widespread.
With tolerance for all races and creeds
His speeches and marches planted the seeds
For a movement calling for civil rights
Advocating through nonviolent fights
Against injustice wherever it streamed.
Martin Luther King had an American dream.
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