MLK's legacy celebrated at church in Ansonia

Community honors slain civil rights leader

Sanctuary of Macedonia Baptist Church in Ansonia.

ANSONIA - Clergy, elected officials, educators, and residents gathered on Martin Luther King Day Monday at Macedonia Baptist Church to honor the civil rights leader's legacy.

King was assassinated on April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tenn. at the age of 39.

Ansonia NAACP President Greg Johnson 

The annual celebration in the Valley was sponsored by NAACP Ansonia Branch #2000 and Macedonia Baptist Church.
President Greg Johnson said he was gratified to see the diversity of those in attendance. 
"That's what it's about, being able to live among our neighbors in unity," he said.

Mayor David S. Cassetti asked, "Are you doing what is right? Are you teaching your children right from wrong?"

Felicia McPhail introduced students who won an essay contest about MLK. 
All four city schools were contacted, but only John C. Mead elementary school participated. 

Eighth grader Maliqa Mosley-Williams

The school entered 40 essays in the contest. Winners received
certificates and cash awards.
Sixth grader Brandon Richards came up with an idea the audience applauded. He said in his winning essay he would like to see a statue of Martin Luther King erected at the site of the former Riverside Apartments on Olson Drive.
Brandon said a portion of King's "I Have a Dream" speech should be inscribed on a plaque near the statue.

Mead School sixth grader Louis Gripper 
reads his winning essay.

The Rev. Alfred L. Smith, Jr., pastor, suggested a committee be formed to pursue that idea, and recommended that the statue be installed in Gatison Park.

Ansonia Middle School co-principal Terri Goldson spoke about the importance of always "doing the right thing," one of King's teachings.

Mistress of ceremonies Wilhelmenia Christon said it's time to move the Valley, the community, and the nation "toward a better tomorrow."