Lighting ceremony, unity walk, inspiring words to highlight community event
Fort Wayne, Ind. – A large crowd is expected to join Mayor Tom Henry and Dr. Derek King, Sr. in celebrating the completion of a memorial bridge named in honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The event, which kicks off at 9:15 p.m., will include remarks from Mayor Henry and from Dr. King's nephew, Dr. Derek King, Sr. The "Voices of Unity" choir will perform during a Unity Walk across the bridge and the lighting ceremony.
"We know that this majestic bridge is so much more than a span across a river," Mayor Henry said. "It is a symbol that draws our community together – re-energizing our spirit.
It is a statement of unity – reaffirming our commitment to making Fort Wayne a more vibrant and welcoming community – a place of pride and opportunity for all."
Derek King Sr. -- a professor of religious studies at Martin University and the son of Dr. King's only brother -- echoed those sentiments and called Fort Wayne's tribute to Dr. King extraordinary.
"There are not many municipalities that have dedicated a bridge -- and certainly not of this caliber – in the name of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.," Derek King said. "Fort Wayne has done something very unique... It's a grand statement into Fort Wayne's downtown and a fine tribute to my uncle."
Other celebration highlights include a display case from Fort Wayne's Karpeles Manuscript Museum, featuring the last page of the "We Shall Overcome" speech, with handwritten notes from Dr. King. To mark the occasion, a photographer will be available to take free keepsake photos of event goers, sponsored by Visit Fort Wayne.
The bridge's dynamic design includes 25 plaques with quotes from Dr. King, sculptural etchings, a soaring 50-foot high arch, seating midway across the bridge and state-of-the-art lighting, which displays millions of shades of color.
Mayor Henry noted that the bridge was designed to serve as both an enduring remembrance of Dr. King and as "an inspiring gateway into the heart of our city."
In addition, the bridge represents significant local economic investment in the city's future. The total community investment (including design, engineering and construction of the bridge) is more than $8.8 million. Those dollars funded nearly 300 construction jobs and comprise an economic boost that ripples throughout the community and often creates additional jobs and reinvestments throughout the region.
Mayor Tom Henry and the City of Fort Wayne wish to thank event sponsors, including Markey's Audio Visual, DLZ, Republic Services, Visit Fort Wayne and A Party Apart.
City officials also expressed appreciation for the numerous churches, civic and non-profit organizations, businesses and contractors, neighborhood groups and individuals who joined in celebrating this historic event.