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MLK Walk in Williamsport Aims to Save Lives

WILLIAMSPORT– Organizers of the Peace Walk and Day of Service planned for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day hope the event will rally the community against v...

WILLIAMSPORT-- Organizers of the Peace Walk and Day of Service planned for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day hope the event will rally the community against violence.

"We want everybody to know, from the drug dealers and the thugs to politicians and people in high places, that this community is coming together to solve these issues," said Richard James, a writer and activist.

The Beloved Community Council and STEP/AmeriCorps have planned a one mile peace walk starting at 9 a.m. Monday at the intersection of Pine Street and Little League Boulevard.

Walkers will later have the opportunity to volunteer at a number of charities in the area including food banks and shelters.

James says if Dr. King were alive today, he would take on the issue of violence. He added, "He would make mention that this thing saddens everybody's hearts. It rips apart neighborhoods. It tears apart families."

James points out while many of the victims of violence in Williamsport are African-American, getting the black community to participate in activism has been a challenge. Still, he believes a message of peace can and will save the lives of young men here.

James says that message is, "Keep the faith. Always think about tomorrow. There is always the chance that something is going to break for you. Don't give up."

Click here for more information about Monday's event.

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