Nebraska students organize ‘life-changing’ MLK Jr. rally

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Dozens of students from Lincoln and Omaha gathered Saturday to celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

The 29th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Rally, which was organized by middle and high school students, was held on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus.

The rally featured speeches, poems and songs performed by the students.

They shared their stories and experiences, as well as history about MLK and racial tensions in America.

Officials said the event is meant to empower and educate students by making their voices heard.

Jeremiah Theork, a senior at Lincoln High School, said he wants young people to have an impact on their communities.

“I really wanted to touch youth and elected officials with my speech,” he said. “It’s just a beautiful thing to see people out in the community and youth coming out and supporting other youth. I believe it’s such a powerful thing.”

Theork said MLK is an inspiration to him and many other students.

“What he’s done in the past is actually influencing the present and the future,” he said. “And that is exactly why we’re commemorating him, and his works, and other Black civil rights activists who also gave their lives … to give us the freedoms we have now.”

Other students said it can be difficult for young people to speak up sometimes.

Rafa Ahmed, a sophomore at North Star High School, said events like these provide a safe environment where family, friends and peers can show their support.

“This was a great vessel to be able to share my voice and say what I wanted to say where I wanted to say it,” she said.

Ahmed said this year was her first time participating, but she’ll definitely be back again next year.

“It was, I would say, life-changing,” she said. “Which sounds dramatic, but it’s such a great opportunity and a great experience.”

The students encouraged everyone to continue spreading love and to turn out next year for the 30th annual rally.