LAFAYETTE, La. (NEWS 15) — Community leaders and residents gathered across Acadiana to mark the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, honoring Dr. King’s legacy through reflection, recognition, and community engagement.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Committee of Lafayette organized an observance under the theme, “Living the Dream: Together, We Shall Overcome.” All events were held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Multipurpose Center on Cora Street. The day began with a flag-raising and prayer breakfast at 8:30 a.m. Organizers recognized the 2026 Dr. King Award recipients as Pat Colbert-Cormier, Capt. Ray Bias, Geralyn Shelvin, and Judge Jules Edwards III, who was honored posthumously. Committee members noted the honorees were selected for their long-standing service and impact within the community.
Following the breakfast program, health screenings and vendor and organizational booths were set up in the gymnasium. Representatives explained the booths provide information on economic development opportunities and workforce initiatives available throughout the region. Reggie’s Soul Food, operated by Reginald Batiste, offered plate lunches for purchase from late morning into the early afternoon…