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CommonGood E-News What's happening in social justice, social action and community outreach
in Dare and Currituck Counties
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Why Serve?
During
his lifetime, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. worked tirelessly toward a
dream of equality. He believed in a nation of freedom and justice for
all, and encouraged all citizens to live up to the purpose and
potential of America by applying the principles of nonviolence to make
this country a better place to live, creating the Beloved Community.
The King Day of Service is a way to transform Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr.'s life and teachings into community service that helps solve
social problems. That service may meet a tangible need, such as fixing
up a school or senior center, or it may meet a need of the spirit, such
as building a sense of community or mutual responsibility. On this day,
Americans of every age and background celebrate Dr. King through
service projects that:
Strengthen Communities
Dr. King recognized the power of
service to strengthen communities and achieve common goals. Through his
words and example, Dr. King challenged individuals to take action and
lift up their neighbors and communities through service.
Empower Individuals
Dr. King believed each
individual possessed the power to lift himself or herself up no matter
what his or her circumstances - rich or poor, black or white, man or
woman. Whether teaching literacy skills, helping an older adult surf
the Web, or helping an individual build the skills they need to acquire
a job, acts of service can help others improve their own lives while
doing so much for those who serve, as well.
Bridge Barriers
In his fight for civil rights, Dr.
King inspired Americans to think beyond themselves, look past
differences, and work toward equality. Serving side by side, community
service bridges barriers between people and teaches us that in the end,
we are more alike than we are different.
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service:
In 1994 Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act,
designating the King Holiday as a national day of volunteer service.
Instead of a day off from work or school, Congress asked Americans of
all backgrounds and ages to celebrate Dr. King's legacy by turning
community concerns into citizen action. The King Day of Service brings
together people who might not ordinarily meet, breaks down barriers
that have divided us in the past, and leads to better understanding and
ongoing relationships.
As we approach this Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday on January 19,
2009 - the day before our country inaugurates the 44th President of the
United States - many Americans are facing tremendous hardships. Join
Americans across the country serving on Inaugural Weekend, on MLK Day
and throughout the year to make a better nation.
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Historic Speeches and films of Dr. King
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17th Annual Dare Observance
The 17th Annual Dare County observance of Dr.
Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday will
be held Saturday January 16, 2010 at 11 AM at Manteo High School. Mrs. Ruth
Lewis, the event chair, has extended an invitation to the observance stating, "
We cordially invite all community residents to join in the Dr. King observance
which is an opportunity for all persons to express appreciation for Dr. King's
life and ministry."
 The keynote speaker will be Dr. Lorenzo Shannon a former
army chaplain (ret), a Presbyterian pastor, scholar, community activist, author, and
educator. Among other things, Dr.
Shannon was the first African -American senior pastor of the Pentagon Pulpit
and was the African American graduate of the Command and General Staff
College. Dr. Shannon is also an Eagle
Scout and Boy Scout Ambassador, A member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, a
past president of the Duke University Divinity School Alumni Association, and a
holder of several honorary degrees.
In addition to Dr. Shannon's presentation, the celebration
will include musical performances by several local choir groups, essay recitations from local students, and
local faith leaders will offer prayer and special scripture readings to enrich
the program. To conclude the ceremony participants are invited to form the
traditional "friendship circle" with partake in a delicious fellowship meal at
no charge. For more information or to make donations in support of the
event, please contact Ruth or Clarence Lewis at 252-473-3151.
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Currituck County Observance
There are no planned celebrations in Currituck County. But if you would like to volunteer on future projects, contact William Etheridge or call 202-1311. A bit of history: R. Oscar Frost (1883-1980) was an African-American citizen of
prominence in Currituck County. Mr. Frost was employed as a school teacher in
Currituck County in the early part of the 20th Century and lobbied for
improvements to schools for blacks. The Robert Oscar Frost papers consist of
documents related to Currituck County's early black schools, personal financial
records such as cancelled checks and receipts, insurance papers and
correspondence. There are also items relating to the Knights of Pythias, Grand
United Order of Odd Fellows, Frost's work at the Hampton Institute (Hampton,
Virginia) and personal papers from the Frost and Wilson (Mrs. Frost's maiden
name) families (Currituck County, N.C.). Papers are archived
at the Outer Banks History Center
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Events and Activities listed may not represent the position of the editor, every organization, sponsor or subscriber. Please submit articles for publications plus attached photographs to nancy203@gmail.com by TUESDAY prior to publication date.
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CommonGood does not cover politics. However, it will publish information about community and candidate forums. It will publish performing and visual arts where contributions are made to community outreach organizations. Congregational activities which serve the greater good are also covered. .
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Blessings,
Nancy Proctor
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