NATCHEZ — Monday has been set aside to celebrate the life of famed civil rights leader the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

And to celebrate the memory of King and the legacy of his heroic work, there will be a luncheon and parade commemorating King’s contributions.

The “I have a Dream” youth luncheon will begin at 10:45 a.m. at the Natchez Community Center and the parade will get started at 2:30. Line-up for the parade is at 1:30 p.m. on the bluff.

While the holiday is marked as a day of remembrance, organizer of the Martin Luther King Jr. events believe the events have a second purpose — to educate youth about the sacrifices that were made.

The luncheon is hosted annually by the Natchez Association for the Preservation of Afro-American Culture.

The Rev. J. Paul West will speak at the luncheon, and there will be a talent program showcasing area youth.

A ticket to the luncheon is $10 and can be reserved by calling Juanita Jones at 601-446-5752, Flora Terrell at 601-446-6288, Mary White at 601-445-5601 or the Bluff City Post at 601-446-5218.