FARGO — Fargo artists and community members came together to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy on Monday, Jan.
20, 2025, during a showcase of speakers, singers, dancers and poets sharing their interpretations of MLK's vision. The free annual event was hosted by the Fargo Human Rights Commission and coordinated by the nonprofit group Fred's Dissonance. Held at the Fargo Theatre, participants payed tribute to civil rights leader Dr.
Martin Luther King Jr. with a theme of “Umoja 56: Living the Dream,” exploring MLK’s legacy over the past 56 years and sharing the importance of “Umoja,” the Swahili word for unity. During the event, several community members were honored with the Martin Luther King Jr.
Day Human Rights Awards, which recognize those whose work exemplifies MLK’s legacy and uplifts human rights, according to a press release. Mora Sanders, a social media manager, photographer and organizer with the Indigenous Association in Fargo, was awarded the Youth Award for her work promoting cultural pride and creating opportunities for Indigenous community members to connect, engage and preserve traditional practices. Davies High School student Florance Sherman was also awarded the Youth Award.
Sherman is president of the North Dakota Association of Student Councils and the North Dakota State Representative for the National Student Council who champions "respect for diversity, amplified underrepresented voices and worked to dismantle systemic barriers i.