West Hartford celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Jan. 21, 2013

By Kathleen Schassler/West Hartford News

Keynote address offered by Dr. Stacey K. Close, interim associate vice president for Equity and Diversity and a professor of African American History at Eastern Conn. State University.

Dr. Stacey K. Close offers the keynote address during the West Hartford Celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. event held at the town hall on Monday.

Billie Jefferson, a student at Conard High School, offers a student’s perspective on Martin Luther King Day at the West Hartford Town Hall.

Stacy-Ann Wallen, a student at Hall High School, speaks during the 17th annual ceremony to honor Martin Luther King in West Hartford Town Hall.

Joy Wright holds her children, Grace and Jonathan, close as they listen closely to the keynote speech offered by Dr. Stacey K. Close at the West Hartford Town Hall.

Members of the King Phillips singers perform on Martin Luther King Day.

The King Philip Singers perform at West Hartford Town Hall on MLK Day.

West Hartford residents, town officials, students, and families gathered at the town hall to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Residents listen to speakers at the West Hartford Town Hall on Monday, Jan. 21.

Conard High School’s Be S#arp Acapulco group performs.

State and local officials joined residents at the town hall for the MLK Day ceremony.

Art created by West Hartford students is currently on display at the town hall.

Art created by West Hartford students is currently on display at the town hall.