NORFOLK, Va. — Each year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, people gather in downtown Norfolk to honor the civil rights activist.
The tradition continued Monday as people gathered at the Attucks Theatre on Church Street for musical performances and a conversation about King’s life, which included discussion on his visit to Norfolk in 1962.
Watch: Celebrating the Legacy of MLK, Jr. on Coast Live
For 12-year-old Tyler Crenshaw, that legacy brings to mind one word.
"Justice," she said when asked what's the first thing that comes to mind when she thinks of Dr. King.
She said carrying on Dr. King’s legacy means staying strong.
“He was going through tough times. He pushed through and did what had to do," said Tyler.
Watch: Virginia Symphony Orchestra will host free concerts to honor MLK Jr.
Her mother, Yolanda Crenshaw, does what she can to help her daughter become the next generation of King’s work.
“The only thing we can do is teach, expose, and pray that they understand the impact that he had for us and for what, hopefully, she can also have in the future," Yolanda said.
This was her first time attending the event.
“I didn’t expect this amount of people here, so this is amazing to see everyone like me is looking for the hope, the dream to be realized," she explained.
Watch: Community members honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during Newport News parade
Norfolk Mayor, Dr. Kenny Alexander, was among the many city city leaders who participated in the celebration.
He spoke at the program inside the theatre and was on the front line of teh march to the memorial.
“If history is not remembered and history is not told, history will repeat itself. It was a tragic time in our history. Racism, discrimination, injustices. Dr. King lived his life in service and in social justice. So it’s important for us to remember and reflect, but more important that we commit ourselves for equality and inclusion," Alexander said.
Watch: Members of the King family reflect on legacy of MLK Jr.
He had this message for young people.
“Nonviolence. Dr. King was a Baptist preacher, he was an activist, but he was a nonviolent activist and he really loved the community. He coined the word ‘beloved community’ to reflect the care, compassion that we should practice and immolate," Alexander emphasized.
Monday's celebration concluded with a wreath laying ceremony at the MLK memorial.
