COLUMBUS, Ohio — Communities in central Ohio and across the country are honoring the life of Rev. Martin Luther King on Monday through tributes and commemorations such as volunteering and readings.
Local leaders and neighbors said through King’s work, they’re working to create a more equitable community — one that points toward justice, peace and love.
At the MLK Breakfast in downtown Columbus, city and community leaders and state politicians spoke while reflecting on King’s legacy. Sen. Sherrod Brown was speaking when he was interrupted by a group of pro-Palestinian supporters who called on him to declare a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.
The Columbus Division of Police escorted the protesters from the event and no arrests were made.
Shortly after, Rep. Joyce Beatty stepped on stage to address the situation, explaining that the protesters had a right to freedom of speech.
“Sen. Sherrod Brown nor I cannot give you a single answer. But what I can unequivocally say to you is that we are against anyone and any group of people killing innocent children and women,” Beatty said.
“It’s not about what we said, it’s about what we’re working on. We’re working on a bilateral agreement because it’s not one-sided and I will not pick one side over another, but we need everyone to come together.”
The event went on as planned once the protesters left the venue.
The city will hold its annual MLK Program at the Lincoln Theater where doors will open at 4 am. City officials canceled the march because of extremely cold weather.
Other communities across central Ohio held events Monday morning to commemorate King’s achievements.