It's been almost 50 years since Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his now famous "I Have a Dream" speech. That's why the Schenectady County Human Rights Commission found there to be no better way to celebrate Monday's holiday, than by focusing on King's powerful words. Our Maria Valvanis has more.

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"I think it's a great way to show people that you can make a difference, you can start by doing one thing and make it into a big thing, to help other people."

Compelling words from 8th grader Kristina Whipple as she considers the aptitude behind the "I Have a Dream" Speech, heard streaming through the loud speakers at this year's Martin Luther King celebration in Schenectady.

'We wanted everyone to hear that to make sure that it is significant to them, as well as to just remember the words that he said," said Angelica Morris, Schenectady Human Rights Commission Chair.

Sunday's two-part event featured a rally followed by a keynote program. But the entire celebration revolved around those powerful words Dr. King spoke years ago, words that have not lost their meaning.

"The message now is just as poignant as it was way back when he was espousing it. We need freedom, we need liberty, and we need to remove prejudice in our world," said Assemblyman James Tedisco.

And community activists says the work begins right here at Sunday's celebration.

"That's what it is all about, for us to have a venue where people can come and bring different backgrounds together and celebrate each other's differences and experiences," said Morris.

Whipple said, "He helped me to see that if you can make a difference, make it, follow your dreams, don't let them go."