During a recent city council meeting, Delvin Smith, representing the Martin Luther King Jr. parade organizers, provided an update on the planning for the upcoming 2025 MLK parade, a significant annual event held each January to honor the civil rights leader's legacy. Smith emphasized the importance of the parade as a celebration of unity, equality, and justice, reflecting the values that Dr. King championed.

Smith, who has been active in the community for over 24 years, shared his commitment to mentoring local youth through his \"Boys to Men with Purpose\" program, which aims to provide alternatives to negative influences. He highlighted the parade as not just a one-time event, but a vital part of the city's identity, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to foster understanding and solidarity.

This year's parade is set to feature the renowned Bethune-Cookman Wildcats marching band, along with performances from local high school bands, including Jones High School and Heritage High School. Smith called for both public and private financial support to cover the estimated $35,000 needed for logistics, permits, and security, noting that local law enforcement is working to minimize costs.

City officials expressed their support for the event, with the mayor and council members acknowledging the need for community involvement and contributions to ensure its success. The meeting concluded with a call to action for residents to participate in the parade and support its mission of promoting equality and justice for all.