By Barbara Augsdorfer, editor for the Effingham Herald
Thomas Lonon, the outgoing president of the Effingham County NAACP, was the guest speaker at the Exchange Club’s regular meeting Jan. 15.
Lonon began by saying that Jan. 15 is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday.
In his brief remarks, Lonon reminded the group, “as we celebrate his birthday, we are reminded of the profound impact of his leadership, vision, courage, he had on our nation and the world,” Lonon said. “Dr King worked for justice rooted in love, peace, and nonviolence. He led the civil rights movement with a dream of a world where people will be judged, not by the color of their skin, by the carpet of their character.”
Lonon added that Dr. King’s legacy is the monumental changes to laws and society.
“The leadership was not just about achieving legislative victories, but about inspiring hearts and minds,” Lonon continued. “Dr King's ability to communicate hope and inspire action through words like his iconic ‘I have a dream’ speech continues to give us the pursuit of equality and justice.”
And the work is still not done, Lonon said.
“As we reflect on Dr. King’s life today, let us remember that his work is not yet finished. The struggle for justice continues, and it is up to each bus to carry on his dream,” Lonon added. “We honor him, not just with words, but through the actions we take in our community, by promoting understanding, fostering inclusion, and standing up against injustice wherever we find it.
“Let us recommit to the values that Dr. King championed: equality, kindness, and love for all,” Lonon concluded. “His birthday is a reminder that together we can continue building a world that reflects his dream, a world where all people are treated with dignity and respect.”
Tanaka Stinger will be installed as the new president of the Effingham County NAACP soon.
Upcoming events for the Effingham County NAACP include the annual wreath-laying and remembrance service at the Ebenezer Cemetery on Feb. 22. The event is free and open to the public.
The Exchange Club is also planning and organizing its annual Quick Think-a-Thon, March 6 at the Effingham County High School gym. The Exchange Club is seeking sponsors and donations for the gift bags given to the competitors.
The annual competition is the finals for district second-graders – the winners of classroom and school competitions.
For more information about the Quick Think-a-Thon, to donate or become a sponsor, contact Yvette Carr at ycarr@burnsworldtravel.com.