Three New Members to be Inducted Into MLK Hall of Fame
GoLocalProv News Team
Three New Members to be Inducted Into MLK Hall of Fame
“We’re proud to honor leaders who have spread kindness throughout our city, helping to create more inclusive and thriving communities. These individuals embody the teachings of the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King that we commemorate with this ceremony. I congratulate and thank this year’s inductees for their service,” said Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza.
The induction ceremony will take place on Thursday, January 31 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThe Inductees:
Providence Police Detective Anthony Roberson has served numerous communities within Providence; advocating for social justice and civil rights through board memberships, community-led initiatives, and volunteering capacities.
He previously served as a member of the Providence Police Department Neighborhood Response Team and as a board member for the Sojourner House. Det. Roberson has also spearheaded various local programs such as the Handshake Initiative, the Summer Safety Initiative, and Shop with a Cop, building vital connections between the community and the Providence police force.
The late Laura Rodriguez was known affectionately as the “Mayor of South Providence" and a champion of the city’s most vulnerable communities. She passed away on December 25, 2018, leaving a much admired and respected legacy of public service.
In her time in Providence, Rodriguez organized union workers; advocated for a higher quality of life in South Providence, Elmwood, and the West End, opened a small business, and organized a youth leadership group that empowered many throughout the years.
Rodriguez also established the Community Angels program, bringing thousands of toys, food, and winter clothing to children in need in the city.
Shawndell Burney- Speaks is a widely respected certified life coach, motivational speaker, and community advocate. Through numerous partnerships with local faith communities and community organizations, she has been a strong advocate for gun-violence prevention.
Burney-Speaks has helped organize Corporate Prayer for Rhode Island to Massachusetts; assisted to launch local mentorship programs for at-risk youth; all while passionately advocating for programs and policies that will bring about positive changes.
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