D.C. Peace Walk and Parade renews spirit of hope
By AFRO Staff
Washingtonians gathered in the District on Jan. 19 for the 21st Peace Walk and Parade, an event set in motion by founder of The Washington Informer, Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, with the help of his wife, former longtime D.C. Councilmember Wilhelmina J. Rolark (D-District 8), the United Black Fund, and popular radio personality and activist, Ralph “Petey” Greene. What began in 1977 has evolved into an event that unites the D.C. community and highlights the talent of students in the District while celebrating the contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the activists who keep his legacy alive.
This year, the peace rally kicked off at Firth Sterling Ave. and Sumner Road in Southeast Washington, D.C. The rally was followed by a parade of bands, advocacy organizations and local agencies, cheered on by onlookers as they made their way down Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. In addition to the parade, the event also offered a Hopeful Healing Health and Wellness Fair, with screenings for blood pressure and diabetes and more.
All AFRO Photos/Jonathan Forney
Members of the Grand Lodge, FAAM, of Washington, D.C., show up by the dozens to participate in the Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Walk.
Members of the Ruff Riderz showcase their drum skills as they make their way down the parade path.
The chants of “Free D.C.” are heard throughout the Peace Walk.
Students of Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy keep the beat going as they march down Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue.
To keep participants warm and full, volunteers provide coffee and donuts.
Peace Walk participants move up Sumner Road.
The first wave of Peace Walk participants begin to march.
MLK Peace Walk Co-Chair Ed Hardy addresses the crowd before the march.