TYLER, Texas —
More than a half-century after his assassination in Memphis, new generations of activists continue to bear the torch of Dr. Martin Luther King.
Hundreds of people gathered in Tyler to continue marching toward Dr. King's dream of equality and freedom.
"The intent of Dr. King's heart was about equality,” Ralph Caraway, Pastor of St. Louis Baptist Church, said.
Despite the divided times, the work of Dr. King was visible Monday with people of different races and generations holding hands to live out that dream.
"Even through tough times and differences, eventually we will all come together and in times of need and all that," Isaiah Pearson said.
Pearson says he has marched in the parade ever since he was a child.
"It was such a big deal for segregation to happen and with Martin Luther King ending it pretty much, that was also a pretty big deal. For it to be forgotten would be something horrible," Pearson explained.
The annual parade was first organized in the 1983. Though not many, there are some who have marched every year since the parade's inception.
Ralph Caraway is one of those that has been in each march. He says part of the reason he marches is to have a positive impact on his community.
"He's taught me about perseverance. He's taught me about being the very best that you can be with the life God has gifted you with," Caraway said. "Have an impact on your society and leave a legacy like Dr. King has done."