Walkers Honor King's Civil Rights Work

For the Stickler family, a walk held in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. today had special meaning. 

David and Scheneithia Stickler are an interracial couple; they have three children, Rhemya, 9, Dayana, 7, and Atiera, 2. 

"We're here because if it weren't for Dr. King and lots of other important African-Americans, our family probably wouldn't exist," Scheneithia Stickler said. 

More than 50 people gathered at in Farmington Hills at around 9:30 a.m. Tanji Grant, co-chair of the Multicultural/Multiracial Community Council (MCMR), said she was surprised by how many people indicated they were attending for the first time.

"I've talked to a lot of new people," she said, calling the turnout "absolutely wonderful." 

Aided by cars blocking intersections on 12 Mile Rd., participants walked from the church to the , with many carrying signs that bore messages of peace and hope. Grant said walkers used all of the 50 blank poster boards available. 

Hot chocolate, tea, water and snacks were served in the library auditorium, where walkers enjoyed a program featuring performances by the choir, dancers and musicians Matt Watroba and Robert Jones. Guest speakers were Margaret Mason, author of a children's book, These Hands, and Evege James, who worked at a Detroit bakery where African-American employees were once restricted from holding certain jobs.