Dear Friend --

I hope you’ll join me, Vice Mayor Dee Andrews, and community members from all over Long Beach this Saturday morning for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade.

The parade kicks off at 10:30 am and will march up Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, from Anaheim Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Park at 1950 Lemon Avenue, where the city will host a free festival including music, food vendors, activities for children, and information booths.

I love walking through the heart of our city with community leaders and service groups to celebrate Dr. King’s life and work—and to make sure we all remember that the work isn’t done.

The theme of this year’s parade is “Continuing the Legacy,” and it’s never been more important that we as people come together and stand up for equality and justice. I’m proud Long Beach is a place that honors diversity and promotes an inclusive city. Those are values all Americans should embrace each and every day.

Ultimately, what Martin Luther King really stood for was love. I look forward to seeing everyone Saturday and showing our love for Long Beach.

Go Long Beach,

Mayor Robert Garcia