MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON — As Hutchinson continues its annual Mission Possible celebration honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., local leaders are encouraging residents to reflect not only on his historic achievements, but on the responsibility of carrying his message forward today.
During a recent appearance on the BW Morning Show, Dr. Hence Parson and Darrell Pope of the Parson and Pope Podcast discussed King’s lasting impact, his philosophy of nonviolence, and the importance of community engagement in advancing civil rights and social justice.
Parson said King was “a leader before his time,” noting that his approach to addressing racial injustice emphasized unity, understanding, and peaceful action—principles that remain relevant amid ongoing social challenges.
“Nonviolence does more to promote unity and understanding than any other avenue people might take,” Parson said. “That philosophy is still being carried forward today.”
Pope added that King’s influence extended far beyond legislation or protest marches, emphasizing his ability to unite people who might not otherwise interact.
“He brought folks together with a message that we’re all citizens, we’re all human, and we all deserve the rights and liberties this country promises,” Pope said.
Both men reflected on the irony of King’s assassination, noting that a man who preached nonviolence died violently, sparking unrest across the nation in 1968. They said that moment underscored both the difficulty of King’s mission and the depth of his influence.
The conversation also highlighted King’s enduring writings, including Letter from Birmingham Jail, which Parson described as a powerful response to critics who challenged his nonviolent methods—even as he was jailed for peaceful protest.
“There’s a role for ministers and community leaders in this work,” Pope said. “They have influence and a responsibility to guide people toward justice and action that benefits the whole community.”
Hutchinson’s Mission Possible observance spans two days, a format organizers say is intentional. Sunday honored King as a minister, while Monday recognizes him as a citizen and activist working for systemic change.
Monday’s event features keynote speaker Dr. Mildred Edwards at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the campus of Hutchinson Community College. Organizers described Edwards as an accomplished educator, trainer, and inspirational speaker with experience working nationally and with organizations including law enforcement training programs.
Parson and Pope emphasized that while today’s leaders may not replicate the scale of the March on Washington, many are advancing King’s vision through voter registration, civic engagement, and community organizing.
“The work is hard,” Parson said. “Nonviolence is difficult, especially when people experience violence themselves. But Dr. King showed us the best goal—and it’s up to us to keep promoting that philosophy.”