GRANTS, N.M. – The Cibola Community gathered Monday, Jan. 19, for the 20th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, held at the Double Six Arts Gallery in Grants.
The program featured student essays and a dance performance by the San Rafael 76ers, showcasing physical art and poetry, both youth involvement and local tradition as Cibola County residents marked the holiday with reflection and community fellowship.
Village of Milan Mayor Felix Gonzalez reminded attendees that the day is meant to be “a day on, not a day off,” as he read several quotes from Dr. King and encouraged the audience to reflect on them. After sharing the quotes, Gonzalez told attendees that if people truly “reflect and meditate” on Dr. King’s words, “you can get a lot out of it.”
Gonzalez also emphasized the importance of teaching the next generation, noting that hate still exists and that adults have a responsibility to ensure children are taught not to carry it forward.
Grants Mayor Erik Garcia addressed the crowd, offering remarks focused on community and education, saying that students need to be taught the legacy of Dr. King so it won’t be repeated. He reiterated his commitment to the safety of Grants’ streets and said Dr King’s legacy must be remembered and taught.
Garcia said event organizer Dorothy Pogue contacts him each year to invite him to the event and ask him to speak. He said he is never quite sure what to say but expressed gratitude for the opportunity and for the annual tradition.
Garcia reflected on his years as mayor and said Dr. King’s legacy must continue to be taught to children as a way to strengthen the community.
The annual celebration has become a longstanding local tradition, bringing together residents, students and civic leaders to honor Dr. King’s message and recommit to service and respect within the community.