Summary:

NYC celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day with events at BAM and Convent Avenue Baptist Church.
Governor Kathy Hochul spoke at BAM, highlighting the importance of continuing King's fight for human rights.
Mayor Eric Adams' absence from NYC MLK Day events to attend Trump's inauguration sparked widespread criticism.
Critics argue Adams' actions show a disregard for the city and King's legacy.
The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between political priorities and honoring the legacy of civil rights leaders.

MLK Day in NYC: A City Divided?

New York City commemorated Martin Luther King Jr. Day with events at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) and Convent Avenue Baptist Church in Harlem. Governor Kathy Hochul spoke at BAM, emphasizing the ongoing need to fight for human rights and community. At Convent Avenue Baptist Church, where King made his final NYC appearance, Reverend Jessie T. Williams Jr. decried the current political climate.

However, the day was marked by the notable absence of Mayor Eric Adams, who attended Donald Trump's inauguration in D.C. This decision drew sharp criticism. Mayoral candidate Michael Blake stated that Adams "chose Donald Trump over New Yorkers." NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams added that Adams' absence would have concerned King himself, given the mayor's choice to attend the inauguration of someone whose views contrast sharply with King's legacy.

Key Events:

BAM Celebration: Focused on King's legacy and the importance of continued activism.
Convent Avenue Baptist Church Service: A powerful service reflecting on King's final New York appearance and the ongoing fight for equality.
Mayor's Absence: Mayor Adams' attendance at Trump's inauguration sparked significant controversy and criticism.

Source: ABC7 New York