Americans throughout the country marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday with observances and celebrations paying tribute to the life and legacy of the great Civil Rights hero. Here in Meridian, multiple events were held at the Historic First Union Baptist Church, Frank Cochran Center, Meridian Community College and more.

 

Despite his short time on earth, King’s words and passion for racial equality spurred thousands to action, many of whom lived, worked or passed through Meridian. His advocacy for freedom and equality, and practice of nonviolent protest changed the very fabric of the nation and radically altered life in Mississippi and other southern states.

 

King, along with other Civil Rights icons such as James Chaney, Medgar Evars, James Meridith and Ida B. Wells, risked, and in some cases lost, their lives to improve the lives of strangers they had never met and bring unity to generations that had yet to be born.

 

Today, we see division once again raising its head in the United States. Political differences, division between class and theological standoffs drive a wedge between friends, neighbors and even family in addition to longstanding inequities born of the past.

 

One of King’s most well-known moments is his speech during the 1963 March on Washington,  when he famously said, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

 

Looking on social media or watching television news, one could easily surmise Meridian’s character is lacking. Discussions about crime dominate, while positive news, such as a recent $10 billion datacenter investment, a project that is likely to drastically alter the city and surrounding area, is largely ignored by local residents.

 

A deeper examination of the community, however, shows something much, much different. In moments of need, Meridianites are some of the most dependable, generous people one could hope to meet.

 

After storms or other disasters, residents can often be seen cleaning their neighbor’s yard before tending to their own. When a family suffers a tragedy, the community comes together to help them in any way they need.

 

That’s not to mention dozens of community organizations and thousands of volunteers that help the less fortunate in our city every day.

 

Like many southern cities, Meridian’s history is far from sunshine and rainbows, and it doesn’t take an eagle eye to see the scars that may never truly heal over.  It is the generosity and dependability of its residents, however, that shows the city’s true character, and that character is strong.