King’s ‘Dream’ speech to be honored Thursday

The National Park Service, the King Center and Ebenezer Baptist Church will kick off a weekend of events commemorating the 45th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” with a special tribute Thursday.

Issac Newton Farris, King’s nephew, will be among speakers offering their thoughts on the landmark speech during the hourlong tribute beginning at 10 a.m. at the King National Historic Site Visitor Center, 450 Auburn Ave.

King gave his speech on Aug. 28, 1963, during the March on Washington. An estimated 250,000 people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial for the multi-racial demonstration for jobs, justice and civil rights.

Through Sunday, visitors to the historic site can hear continuous audio broadcasts of the speech and also view screenings of historic footage from the march and interviews with King.

“From Memphis to Atlanta: The Drum Major Returns Home,” honoring the 40th anniversary of King’s assassination, is currently on exhibit at the historic site. All events are free and open to the public.