A volunteer works at Unity Park at a previous MLK Day. Photo by Richmond Pulse.
Taking place on the third Monday of January is the only U.S. holiday observed as a national day of service – a day on, not a day off. Many cities in the Bay Area will host such events that continue Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision to improve lives, bridge social barriers and move our nation closer together to the beloved community.
Richmond's day of service is one of community, gardening and celebration of the life of MLK. Participate in volunteer proj­ects at sites near Unity Park on the Richmond Greenway at the corner of 16th Street and Ohio Avenue, like weeding and trash removal from 9 a.m. to noon.
Gloves, tools and water will be provided, but if you bring your own there will be more to share. Please bring your own reusable water bottle if possible. Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and dress in clothes that can get dirty.
Parking is limited so it is suggested that you park on 20th street near the Greenway and walk to Unity Park. All must sign waiv­ers. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult and those under 18 must have a waiver signed by a legal guardian.
The El Cerrito Martin Luther King Jr. celebration is showing "Cracking the Codes," a documentary followed by a community conversation on Sunday, Jan. 20.
The film explores a systemic approach to understanding ra­cial inequity as a precursor to building strategies that address ra­cial and socio-economic barriers. Following the film, there will be a facilitated conversation about the system of racial inequity prompted by the stories in the film.
The free film will be shown at El Cerrito High School Per­forming Arts Theater, 4 p.m., 540 Ashbury Ave., El Cerrito. For information contact: (510) 234-2518.
Marin will hold its MLK day of service at Veteran's Memo­rial Auditorium. Volunteer work will be mildly strenuous and involves bending, pulling, and kneeling. Dress in layers you can get dirty, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water. Please bring gloves if you have them. Snacks will be provided. In the event of heavy rain and/or high winds, call (415) 763-2977 to find out about event status. If cancelled, the program will be rescheduled. RSVP's are appreciated but not required.
The event will be held 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at 10 Avenue of the Flags. For information, contact Volunteer Coordinator Kirk Schroeder at [email protected] or (415) 763-2977.
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