Video: Chicago Heights Celebrates Martin Luther King Jr.

Nearly 45 years after his assassination, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is often referred to as one of the greatest civil rights in United States history. The City of Chicago Heights held a celebration of his life Monday morning. 

First Ward Ald. Walter Mosby opened the morning with a prayer followed by Third Ward Ald. Wanda Rodgers giving her rendition of Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come." The School District 170 Jazz Band provided more music as they performed "Lean on Me."

Bloom 206 seniors Zhana Johnson, Yesenia Garcia and Guadalupe Maria Avalos read essays they wrote about King’s message and whether the United States has achieved what he wanted it to. The high school students stole the show with hard truths about the educational system and modern society.

Mayor David Gonzalez was the first speaker, pointing out aspects of today's America that King would be proud of, as well as things that still need to be improved. State Sen. Toi Hutchinson gave a speech about coming together while Osei David Andrews-Hutchinson called on members of the community to become more invested in societal change.

Also in attendance were State Rep. Anthony DeLuca and former U.S. Rep. Debbie Halvorson.

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