Unity March in Merced highlights importance of MLK’s Work, Legacy

February 1, 2025

By Andrew Hardy

Hundreds of passionate Mercedians and local dignitaries gathered for the 30th annual Unity March and Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration in downtown Merced on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025.

The event, led by NAACP President Allen Brooks, was full of joy, pride, and community spirit as participants marched along Martin Luther King Jr. Way from the Amtrak Station to the Historic Merced Theatre. Once there, attendees were able to enjoy a local vendor marketplace, as well as view the MLK Celebration Program inside the theater.

“I love it,” Brooks told the Times. “I love being a part of it. I love being involved in it. It gives me hope. It shows me that Merced is a thriving place full of wonderful individuals who support our cause. I love seeing this event grow year after year.”

Brooks added, “Power to the people.”
The local event marked 30 years of commemorating the enduring legacy of Dr. King, who inspired a nation with his vision of equality, justice, and nonviolent resistance.

“Every year we come together to honor Dr King’s dream of a society where all individuals are treated with, dignity and respect, regardless of their race, color, or creed,” said Tamara Cobb, one of the committee’s key contributors. “The Unity March symbolizes a commitment to these principles and serves as a powerful reminder that the fight for civil rights and social justice is ongoing. By marching through the streets of Merced, we affirm our dedication to fostering a community built on unity and inclusiveness.

Among the many public figures in attendance were Senator Anna Caballero, Mayor Matthew Serratto, Mayor Pro Tem Sarah Boyle, City Councilmen Daron Dupont and Mike Harris, Merced County Supervisors Jim Pacheco and Josh Pedrozo, MCSD Superintendent Juliana Stocking, MCSD Board Trustee Priya Lakireddy, Superior Court Judge Brian McCabe, Police Chief Steven Stanfield and Arts Center Director Colton Dennis.

The event recognized several individuals for their outstanding contributions to the community:

Diane Pierce – Community Service Award
Anthony Heard Jr.
Community Service Award

Ella Luna-Garza
MLK Spirit Award

Walter Smith –
Humanitarian Award

Shayne Makari Pulliam
Community Youth Award

Dalyla Johnson
Community Youth Award

From UC Merced:
John Dupree III
Oyinkansola Amao
Samantha Velazquez
Adeline Nibitanga
Each recipient reflected on Dr. King’s impact as a man of faith and an organizer, emphasizing the importance of building a lasting legacy.