Alvin M. Keeling 
A church in Sioux City is hosting an event to promote solidarity and equity through song tonight.
In the annual tradition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a choir will sing songs of healing to honor his legacy.
NAACP Local Chapter Vice President Treyla Lee said the event was about coming together to recognize the fight for equality. She says the music itself shows what the community can do when it comes together.
“The chorus is a great example of each having what suits them,” Lee says, “but all having a voice to perform a note.” Lee says she wants people to leave the church knowing their voice matters. From town leaders to students, everyone is invited to carry on King’s legacy by wearing a tune.
Sandra Pearson will lead the choir at Kingdom Ministries Church. Her family has helped organize the event since its inception in 1982. Pearson says the community uses music to bring about healing, which she thinks many are looking for right now.
“This country, in my opinion, has been divided on so many levels and continuing to push for unity and equality is so, so important,” Pearson said. “We never want to stop fighting.”
The 7 p.m. event will also include speakers, dancing and a call to action for people to exercise their right to vote. Pearson hopes singing together can help the community achieve the same harmony as the voices of the choir.
(By Kendall Crawford, Iowa Public Radio)
