Echoes of Freedom as We Continue Marching Forward

5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Extravaganza Celebrates Unity and Legacy in San Bernardino

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, YouthBuild Inland Empire, and LUE Productions Community Umbrella Services proudly hosted the 5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Extravaganza on Monday, January 20th, 2025. Themed “Echoes of Freedom as We Continue Marching Forward,” this year’s event united the community to honor Dr. King’s enduring legacy of equality, justice, and hope.

Despite strong winds sweeping through the city, the spirit of celebration and unity prevailed, making the event a resounding success. The parade was led by Grand Marshal Mr. Rich Wallace, Founder and CEO of the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce and Chancellor for YouthBuild Inland Empire. Starting at noon, the parade route moved through downtown San Bernardino, passing the iconic Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. statue on D Street near City Hall. The San Bernardino Motorcycle Unit led the procession, with comedian Mac Rome and Tawnya Rhodes-Hensley of Talk of the Town energizing the crowd as parade announcers.

The extravaganza began with an inspiring performance by students from several local schools, directed by music instructor Mrs. Mary Tartalone. Hosted by comedian Anthony Stone, the program featured a powerful keynote address from 5th District Supervisor Joe Baca. Awards of Service were presented to:

• The San Bernardino City Unified School District
• Felicia Alexander, Board Member of SBCUSD
• Shiekh Shoes Impact Center
• San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

The Kids Zone, sponsored by First 5 San Bernardino, was a highlight for young attendees, offering face painting, balloon twisting, and free family resources for children under five. Shiekh Shoes Impact Center also generously donated $50 gift cards for a community giveaway.

The crowd was treated to an electrifying performance by LUE Productions’ Old School Review group, The Bromatics, whose soulful sounds left the audience cheering. Additional performances included jazz singer Amasa Albright and the high-energy DDC Dare to Dance Company, each delivering a showcase of exceptional talent.

Event Coordinator Lue Dowdy reflected on the success of this year’s event, “We did it! All the planning and preparation came together beautifully. The theme, ‘Echoes of Freedom as We Continue Marching Forward,’ reflects the importance of honoring Dr. King’s legacy while focusing on the future. Seeing the involvement of our youth and the overwhelming support from the San Bernardino City Unified School District and their staff made it all worthwhile.

I am so grateful to the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, YouthBuild Inland Empire, and our LUE Productions team for their dedication. Thank you to all our amazing volunteers, vendors, parade participants, and community members for uniting to make this 5th Annual SB MLK Day Parade & Extravaganza a success. I believe Dr. King is proud, and so am I. Until next year!”

This annual celebration, themed “Echoes of Freedom as We Continue Marching Forward,” not only honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. but also highlighted the power of community and unity in creating a brighter future for all.

About the Hosts

The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, YouthBuild Inland Empire, and LUE Productions Community Umbrella Services are dedicated to fostering community development, youth engagement, and cultural celebrations that empower and uplift the Inland Empire region.

Author: Wallace