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Beverly Robinson says it’s important to respect everyone’s differences, be kind and love mankind.

On a personal level, the NAACP Orange Branch secretary loves to see the community come together with one shared dream.

“The camaraderie during the march is special; everyone walking together, singing together, and enjoying one another, which is what Dr. King’s platform was all about,” she said. “It’s OK to be different. That’s what makes us unique.”

The community is invited to a march next week in honor of Martin Luther King Jr., with The NAACP Orange, Texas Branch, Unit #6211-B hosting a “Communities in Action, Empowering the Dream”-themed event.

The gathering is planned from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday. The march begins at Salem United Methodist Church, 402 W. John Avenue in Orange, and concludes at Riverfront Boardwalk and Pavilion, 601 W. Division St. in Orange.

The NAACP Orange, Texas Branch Executive Committee and the MLK March Committee worked with Orange Newsmedia to share what organizers feel is important about this event and how to spin it forward.

Question: Why are these events important to continue, especially for the younger generation?

Answer: Political views and opinions are passing legislation eliminating the study of historical elements of the fight for democracy that impacted not only America, but the Nation. It is important for all youth to understand all the things people before them fought for and to encourage them to keep fighting for justice and equality. Injustices still exist in society and it is important that our community educates all of our youth to understand the MLK march in terms of the impact they have made securing our rights to the freedom of expression and the freedom of speech.

We march to support positive change in our city — change for the better.

Question: Who is invited? Why is this important for the whole community?

Answer: Everyone is encouraged to attend, young and old. We need to make sure people understand the importance of voting to ensure that those representing us pass legislation, not to oppress the voice, but to ensure equal voice and opportunities for everyone.

Question: The theme mentions “communities in action.” Why is that important in 2024?

Answer: As a community, it is important that we collectively identify areas where we can drive positive improvement using local, state and federal resources to increase the visibility and understanding of issues and empower our community to have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives and their neighborhoods. One area prevalent in all communities is poverty. Assistance is needed for low-income individuals and families to acquire useful skills and knowledge to obtain economic self-sufficiency.

Those interested in attending Monday can begin gathering at 9:30 a.m. Monday, with the march starting at 10 a.m.

“No vehicles are allowed. Wear comfortable shoes, bring your signs and singing voices,” organizers stress.

For more details, email naacp.orangetexas@gmail.com. Those interested can also follow NAACPOrangeTexas on Facebook.