Hundreds of enthusiastic genealogists with African or African American roots from across the state gathered Feb. 20 as part of the ninth annual Black Family History Month Symposium. This year's Community Service Award recipient was Martin Luther King III — son of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr for his desire to carry out his father’s work.

The all-day event at the National Archives at Atlanta (located in Morrow, Ga.) has become so popular that hundreds sign a waiting list in hopes of being able to attend. Those who attended were inspired to think about their own lives in relation to their ancestors and to renew their commitment to family and heritage. Organizers of the event sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the National Archives, said some attendee comments were, "I wouldn't miss this for the world." And “I feel so blessed to be here.”

Martin Luther King III, and his wife, Arndrea, thanked the Church for the award that was given for his efforts in the Realizing the Dream Foundation; the organization Mr. King founded to carry on his own parents' legacy, including efforts to conquer poverty.

He talked of his organization's continued plans and that when ability and will come together, the fight against poverty can be won. Mr. King hopes that the Martin Luther King Jr holiday held today in over 120 countries comes to mean freedom and equality for all humankind across the world.

It was a moving experience and a highlight for those in attendance who realize the significant impact the King family legacy has had on the world.

Other distinguished presenters and guests were Quinton Atkinson of Ancestry.com, Jim Ison of FamilySearch.org, Director of the National Archives at Atlanta (Morrow, GA)-Jim McSweeney, Atlanta lawyer and LDS Family History Center genealogist-Bryndis Roberts, author and historian for Ebenezer Baptist Church-Benjamin Ridgeway, Clayton County Commissioner Sonna Singleton, and counselor in Jonesboro LDS Stake-Linwood Jones and wife Janice.

The symposium is one of many such events held in cities around the world to help connect all people to their ancestors, sharing the resources to achieve success, and passing on that legacy to descendants. Often held in Archives and Libraries for major events, the research can also be done nearby at local Family History Centers(FHC)which are free and open to the public.

Family History Centers can be found locally in almost every city in the nation, and provide guidance and materials on family research. One premise at the FHC's: If we know who we are, then we know why we're here, and where we're going. Finding ancestors brings purpose in life and the realization of being a part of something greater than oneself.

Media courtesy of Doug Yancey and Dena Brett