By Howard Packowitz
NORMAL – Bloomington and Normal Human Relations Commissions have named their annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. award recipients who carry on the Reverend King’s legacy through volunteerism.
Bloomington’s award carries a sense of sadness. Lorenzo Marshall, 62, died in August. Tony Jones, a member of the city’s Human Relations Commission, said Marshall was particularly passionate about organizing the local Juneteenth commemoration marking the end of slavery in the United States.
“If you would let him, he would do it all,” said Jones.
“He was very passionate about it, very hardworking, and just really inspirational. He worked with others to help them get motivated, and he was really, really committed to getting this particular Juneteenth event established,” Jones said.
Normal’s recipient is Andre Hursey, who volunteers for many organizations including the Boys and Girls Club and the Western Avenue Community Center. He also volunteers at local schools, and recently established the Jule Foundation, a non-profit group that helps kids reach their potential in and out of the classroom.
Through his efforts, Hursey makes Bloomington-Normal a better, more inclusive, and diverse place, said Normal Human Relations Commission Chairwoman Janessa Williams.
The “I Have a Dream” youth awards go to U-High’s Jordyn Blythe and Xavier Higgins from Normal West. Both students volunteer for many groups. Blythe is one of the founders U-High’s Black Student Union.
All four recipients will be honored at the 42nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Luncheon on Jan. 20.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at howard.packowitz@cumulus.com.
