LANSING, Mich. — Senator Curtis Hertel Jr. (D-East Lansing) was honored Monday with the “Keeper of the Dream” Award at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid-Michigan’s 34th Annual Holiday Luncheon.
The “Keeper of the Dream” Award is presented each year to an individual who continues Dr. King’s legacy of public service and advocacy for civil rights and social change. Past recipients include former Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero and U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow.
“I am humbled and honored to have been recognized by the Commission with the Keeper of the Dream Award,” said Senator Hertel. “Every day I’m proud to serve the people of my district as we continue the fight for equality and justice for all.”
The luncheon featured keynote speaker Governor L. Douglas Wilder, who became the first African-American governor in U.S. history when he was elected governor of Virginia in 1989. The theme of this year’s luncheon was “Be the Change You Wish to See in the World.”
The Dr. Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid-Michigan hosts the largest and longest-running event honoring Dr. King in the region. Proceeds from the luncheon are used to support local community service organizations, education and anti-hunger initiatives.
