CommentaryCommunity

Celebrating Truth, History, and Community In America

Commentary By Rhetta Peoples

I’ll admit it—I’m a parade junkie. There’s just something magical about the atmosphere: the kids smiling, the music filling the streets, and the shared energy of community. This month, celebrating MLK Day was particularly extraordinary, and it’s been on my heart to share why.

In today’s political climate, there’s a push to erase or distort Black history, presenting so-called “alternative facts.” But let’s be clear: Black history is American history, and it deserves to be honored and taught as the truth it is.

I often wonder—how can anyone look a child in the face and tell them anything less than the truth about our country’s history? As a child, I was always digging for the truth, seeking to understand the full picture. And in this age of information, today’s children are doing the same. They’ll seek the truth—whether we guide them to it or not.

So why not start at home? Why not share the richness, the resilience, and the reality of Black history with our kids before the streets, the internet, or anyone else does? It’s not just about teaching them history—it’s about giving them pride, knowledge, and context to navigate the world.
Let’s commit to telling our children the truth, honoring the past, and building a better future. Because when we know better, we do better. 💪🏽

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings – MLK, Jr. Parade in Downtown Orlando Jan. 18, 2025
Photo Credit. Oscar L. Peoples

 

 

Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell at the Downtown Orlando MLK Parade on Jan. 18.

 

 

City of Orlando MLK Parade Jan. 18, 2025 Photo Credit. Oscar L. Peoples

 

City of Orlando Commissioner Bakari F. Burns, MLK, Jr. Parade in Downtown Orlando Jan. 18, 2025
Photo Credit. Oscar L. Peoples

 

MLK, Jr. Parade in Downtown Orlando Jan. 18, 2025
Photo Credit. Oscar L. Peoples

 

MLK Parade in Downtown Orlando Jan. 18, 2025

 

Patricia Rumph at City of Orlando MLK Day Parade Photo Credit. Oscar L. Peoples

Rhetta Peoples

Digital Editor at The Florida Sun + CEO of Creative Street Marketing & Public Relations Group

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