We Press On: New York State Celebrates the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Full Tribute Film
“We Press On: New York State Celebrates the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” explores how Dr. King's vision of justice and equality lives on through New Yorkers who carry forward his values in diverse ways. Like Dr. King, who transformed grief and struggle into hope, Nina Simone channeled her devastation over his assassination into powerful protest music, which became anthems for change. At the Hamilton Hill Arts Center, three generations of women follow Dr. King's belief in the importance of knowing one's history, using arts and culture to build pride and resilience in their community.
Food historian Von Diaz honors Dr. King's vision of interconnected struggles by highlighting Latino contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. The SUNY Black Leadership Institute embodies Dr. King's push for representation and dignity by developing diverse academic leaders. Vogue Buffalo performers and mentors fight for acceptance and create safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community through the art of ballroom, demonstrating that Dr. King’s dream of equality inspires activists even in communities he struggled to embrace.
