North Texans celebrate MLK's legacy

The life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. was honored Monday with parades and celebrations across North Texas.

Thousands of people attended the MLK parade in South Dallas. Despite the chilly weather, thousands lined along Martin Luther King Boulevard for the annual parade. Some people even arrived early to make sure they got their favorite spot along the route.

“It's very important for young people to know what MLK represented — justice for everyone. Not just for one person,” said Joseph Howard.

State Senator Royce West was just one of many local leaders taking part in what is considered one of the largest MLK parades in the country.

“All these dreams right here that will ultimately grow up and be what Martin wanted them to be,” West said. “Happy MLK Day! Look at the crowd today.”

An estimated 6,500 people participated in the parade. Some were there by float while others walked and danced to the beat of the music.

The theme for this year's 36th annual celebration of the civil rights leader was “Reflect on Yesterday for a Better Tomorrow.”

Dallas Police Chief Renee Hall served as grand marshal and agreed with the theme. The other two grand marshals were Dallas County DA Faith Johnson and Interim Dallas County Sheriff Marian Brown.

Organizers say they were happy to see such a cross-section of the community.

Fort Worth and Grand Prairie also held parades to celebrate the holiday. A rally was also held at the University of North Texas to honor the late civil rights activist.