On Monday, January 17, 2011, the World Arts Foundation of Portland (link: http://www.wafinc.org/) organized “Keep the Dream Alive,” the 26th Anniversary Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The tribute was held at the Highland Christian Center and consisted of an all-day celebration including arts, crafts, music, food, and cultural programming.
As part of the anniversary tribute, seven Oregonians were recognized with Lifetime Achievement awards for their community activism. Department of Community Justice (DCJ) parole & probation officer, Erick Montgomery, was posthumously awarded the "Best Peace Officer Award". Mayor Sam Adams and Barbara Walker, Highland Christian Center, led the ceremonies. Erick’s widow, Teresa Montgomery, accepted the award on his behalf.
DCJ staff members also made various artistic contributions throughout the day. Parole and probation officer, Wendy Jackson, performed a song as part of the tribute. Lynn Mangum, Mentorship Program Coordinator, GRIT unit, also gave a musical performance with the Life Change Christian Center Adult Choir. “It was a great opportunity to show your community support and commitment to social justice,” said Mangum, “I would never want to miss this event!”