Participants marched alongside other student leaders, community leaders, activist groups, Greek organizations and local government personnel at a commemorative march on Jan. 21 in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

The University of Alabama’s Student Government Association (SGA) had executive, cabinet and committee members present to promote unity and community on campus and in the surrounding area.

The march began around noon at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, and it ended at Tuscaloosa City Hall, which was approximately two miles.

Jaquaious Little, a senior majoring in computer science, said he felt as though the march was important for the Tuscaloosa community.

“As the VP for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and with senior SGA leadership, I felt that it was important that we take part in civic engagements and service,” Little said.

Little said Martin Luther King Jr. Day serves as a reminder of the past, present and future.

“MLK Jr. Day is a very important national holiday and allows us to reflect on where we’ve been, where we are and where we have yet to go,” Little said.

After the march, members of the community gathered to sing songs in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.

“This march was amazing and such a memorable moment,” said Alexis Leonard, a junior majoring in public health. “I felt like I was in my ancestors’ shoes fighting for freedom and justice for everyone.”