Despite frigid temperatures canceling the ceremonial march, community members gathered Monday to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a presentation titled “Unity in the Community — Through a Student’s Lens.” The event featured a student panel from local high schools, sharing their perspectives on unity and their roles in fostering inclusivity and social justice.
The Owensboro Human Relations Commission hosts the walk and program each year, aiming to carry forward Dr. King’s vision of solidarity, justice, and service by uniting and lifting one another up within the community
This year’s program was held at Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC). It opened with a warm welcome from OCTC President Dr. Scott Williams and an invocation by The Rev. Rhondalyn Randolph. Vocalist LaTasha Shemwell, accompanied by mandolin player Scott Napier, delivered opening and closing performances that framed the evening with a sense of reflection and hope.
The student panel included Owensboro High School’s Allan Kalambayi, JaKovie Curry, and Tyson Lowery; Daviess County’s High School’s Leah Coppick and Cooper White; and Apollo High School’s Brooklyn Alvis. Together, they shared insights on topics ranging from racial equality to the power of youth in continuing Dr. King’s legacy.
Sharmy Davis, OCTC Dean of Student Affairs, moderated the panel and emphasized the importance of the event, which rotates annually between community institutions.
“This celebration is a way for us to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy, and it’s also a way to be unified as a community,” Davis said. “This year, we wanted to hear directly from the youth — how they envision unity and how they are shaping the future.”
The students addressed the progress and challenges surrounding racial equality in their community. Coppick noted that while some progress has been made, lingering generational biases remain a challenge. Alvis highlighted how outdated beliefs in some families continue to perpetuate racial discrimination.
Kalambayi brought attention to systemic barriers, such as economic disparities and voting rights issues. Curry shared personal experiences of encountering stereotypes, emphasizing the importance of breaking down assumptions and advocating for fairness.
The students also reflected on their roles in advancing social justice. White noted that youth bring energy and fresh perspectives, holding the power to organize peaceful protests and spread non-violence.
Alvis spoke about the potential for generational change through education and activism, encouraging young people to speak confidently and challenge norms. Coppick highlighted social media’s ability to amplify youth voices, creating a global platform for change.
When asked about challenging injustice, the panelists stressed the importance of courage. They collectively admitted it’s not easy to speak out, noting the fear of judgment often silences voices. They also emphasized the need to embrace discomfort, asserting that uncomfortable conversations are necessary to create understanding.
The panel also explored ways to foster inclusivity and make a positive impact. Lowery advocated for volunteering, sharing his experience teaching carpentry to younger students. Curry recounted helping a disabled neighbor, illustrating how small acts of kindness can strengthen community bonds.
The students then emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces where diverse voices feel welcome. Alvis suggested community gatherings as a way to foster understanding and reduce judgment.
The panel concluded with the students sharing their aspirations. From pediatric surgery to music education, physics, and engineering, their ambitions reflected a commitment to making a difference both personally and professionally.
Davis reflected on the impact of the student-led discussion and what she hopes people take away.
“We hope people continue to learn the lessons from Dr. King and to apply those to themselves and understand how they can be leaders in the community,” she said. We hope that people have empathy for one another, not judging one another, and are striving to be the change that you want to see in your community and the world.”
