The Jack Yates High School band joined other marching bands and organizations in the MLK Grande Parade in midtown Houston. The parade celebrated the life of Dr. King and his struggle for civil rights.
Houston Astros Manager Bo Porter said, "It's a tribute to a great man, who obviously the impact he had on this country is second to none. I'm just honored to be out here."
"Dr. Martin Luther King leveled the playing field for everybody," said HFD Executive Assistant Chief Rick Flanagan. "Everybody has chance to have a dream, everybody has a chance to get a good education everybody has chance to succeed."
This marks the 19th year for the MLK Grande Parade.
The Original MLK Day Parade, organized by the Black Heritage Society, rolled through downtown Houston at the same time. Spectators lined the streets, taking in the music and dancing.
Many of the dignitaries who usually take part in the parade weren't there this year because they were in Washington for President Obama's inauguration. Spectators say the coinciding events make this day extra special to share with younger generations.
"It is extremely important that I be here and they be here to know the momentous occasion that this is," said spectator Gladys Bullock. "I couldn't miss this opportunity, because in my lifetime I may not ever witness it again. In their lifetime, it will come to pass again."
This was the Black Heritage Society's 35th annual parade downtown honoring Dr. King.
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