Hundreds gather for 36th annual MLK breakfast in Mobile

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The Port City Chapter of Blacks in Government hosted its 36th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. commemorative breakfast Monday morning, drawing hundreds of attendees to the Calirojae on Dauphin Island Parkway.

The event continued a tradition spanning more than three decades as the community celebrated MLK Day. The breakfast welcomed civic leaders, educators, students, and elected officials to honor King’s legacy.

Congressman Shomari Figures attended the gathering and spoke about the continued relevance of King’s message.

“A lot of what he spoke about, even back then, is very much so timely and applicable to what’s going on today,” Figures said. “At the end of the day, one of the most powerful statements that he ever made was ‘All we say to America is to be true to what you said on paper.’ And every day that we’re working in D.C. is trying to get us closer to America doing just that for everybody.”

Former Senator Doug Jones, who is running for Governor of Alabama, also attended the breakfast. He emphasized the significance of the week and called for unity.

“This week is especially significant. Because it’s not only honoring the legacy of Dr. King. It’s a really clarion call for action,” Jones said. “We are more a house divided than we’ve ever been. And we need to get back to that house with the crowded table where there’s room for everyone. There’s room by the fire for everyone.”

Reginald Crenshaw, president of the Port City Chapter of Blacks in Government, said the event brings together a diverse group of community members.

“This activity attracts a good cross-section of people. Law enforcement, city officials, and state officials,” Crenshaw said. “It’s important that we come together to initiate service, talk about service, and talk about doing something for everybody.”

Organizers said they hope those who did not attend this year will join them next year.