They needed to do it virtually, in light of the COVID pandemic. But the Eighth Judicial District’s Coalition of Blacks in the Courts hosted their annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his legacy Friday afternoon.
This year's theme was “The Time is Always Right to Do What is Right.” The centerpiece of the program was a screening of the documentary film The First Rainbow Coalition, which features Black, Latino and White activists who worked together to protest police brutality in Chicago half a century ago.
A panel discussion followed. Its participants included Buffalo City Court Judge Betty Calvo-Torres.
“The Rainbow Coalition’s work presents a challenge to communities today. And I think presents us with some questions," she said. "Why is it that history repeats itself? Is it because we fail to learn from lived experiences? Or is it because there's a deep-seated issue that needs to be routed out before we can move forward?”
Two court employees were honored for their "dedication and diligence in preserving the legacy of Dr. King." Receiving the Sharon A. Thomas Humanitarian Award were Eighth Judicial District Deputy District Executive Tasha Moore and the late Lydia Soto, who died in September 2020.
Court Officer Louise Pitts was honored for her more than 32 years of service.
Paula Hayes, one of the participants, recited an original piece for the occasion: "We are called upon at this present time to take a stance for the change of a lifetime, doing away with hatred and lies, embracing truth with wide open eyes. No longer hiding behind draped capes, we see you out in the open with deep-seated hate. Don't worry, making war is not what we seek to do, but showing you love is what we are going to prove. History has repeated itself time and time again but at this present time, it must end. No more where we stay silent to the injustice of mankind. Our voices you will hear speaking out with no fear. You see what we seek. You see what we seek to change for all mankind, and there is no time like the present to toe the line. We are ready, and in position, so let us stand and go forth in this mission."
This was the 29th annual event held by the Eighth Judicial District.
