Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Day celebration Jan. 16 at Hylton Memorial Chapel in Woodbridge

One of the oldest and largest free celebrations of Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy in the Washington metro area will be held at Hylton Memorial Chapel in Woodbridge on Monday Jan. 16. Six young orators will compete in the 27th annual Dr. King Youth Oratorical Contest, starting at 11 a.m.

At least 2000 people are expected to listen to the inspiring performances of Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park students, according to Deborah Campbell, spokesman for the Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., which is hosting the event.

Hylton Memorial Chapel is located at 14640 Potomac Mills Road, Woodbridge.

Middle school and high school students from the Prince William area will display oratorical skills. Children of all ages will sing songs of celebration in the Martin Luther King Community Choir.

In addition to listening to some amazing speeches and cheering on the contestants and community choir, attendees can participate in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service by donating non-perishable food items, winter coats and children’s books for distribution to Prince William area community service organizations.

Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. members Sheila Bryant and Sandra Mitchell are leading this program.

Bryant was quoted in a news release as saying, “This year’s theme, “What the World Needs Now…” will prompt our youth to think about how they or some positive action might impact the world.”

“This annual oratorical exercise celebrates the oratorical legacy of Dr. King. His speeches inspired the world and we believe our students’ speeches will be equally inspiring.” Mitchell was quoted as saying.

Sponsors include the Cecil and Irene Hylton Foundation, the school districts and education foundations of Prince William County Public Schools, Manassas City Public Schools, Manassas Park City Public Schools, and many churches, community organizations and private donors. For more information, visit http://www.pwcacdst.org.