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Walk for Peace strengthens Bastrop County bonds
Residents from across Bastrop County gathered Monday, Jan. 19, for the 37th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Walk for Peace, Justice and Equality, a spirited observance honoring Dr. King’s legacy of unity and civil rights.
The walk rotates annually among Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville. This year’s event began with a march from Veterans Park in Elgin and continued with a program of reflection and music at Booker T. Washington Elementary School.
“It’s very important that we follow the steps of Dr. King and work on unity — unity is what’s going to keep our community going and strong,” Smithville Mayor Pro Tem Jim Jenkins said. “There is no time like the present to do the right thing.”
Student speakers from area high schools reflected on Dr. King’s impact and the responsibility of future generations. They spoke of service, respect and the significance of inter-community kindness.
Speakers included Elise Rhodes of Elgin High School, Gary Jefferson Jr. of Bastrop High School, Brianna Sampson of Smithville High School, Kayli Salas of Colorado River Collegiate Academy, Alberto Vera of Cedar Creek High School and Jana Dube of McDade High School.
County leaders thanked Elgin for hosting the event and encouraged residents to continue advancing Dr. King’s work. Attendees gathered with friends, family and neighbors, using the occasion to reflect on the connections that unite Bastrop County's cities and residents.
