HOUSTON – Mayor Sylvester Turner and other city officials participated in the 45th annual Original MLK Jr. Day Parade in Houston Monday.
The celebration began at 10 a.m. The parade started at Lamar and Smith Street and was free to the public.
The parade featured marching bands from Texas Southern University, University of Houston, Rice University and high school bands; dance teams, military and ROTC groups, first responders, city and county officials, 14 decorated floats and more.
Houston Rocket Elvin Hayes, tennis great Zina Garrison and Olympian Carl Lewis were also in attendance.
This year’s theme was “Climbing the Mountain to a Better Future.”
Today, we announced the 45th annual Original #MLKDay Parade details.
— City of Houston (@HoustonTX) January 6, 2023
✅156 parade entries
✅12 marching bands from @TexasSouthern, @UHouston @RiceUniversity & high school bands
✅14 floats
✅ Retired Houston Rocket Elvin Hayes, tennis great Zina Garrison & Olympian Carl Lewis! pic.twitter.com/u4u8pNDM6P
“The 2023 Original MLK Jr. Day Parade will be the last one during Mayor Turner’s administration. The Black Heritage Society believes he is a wonderful representation of Dr. King’s dream,” said Black Heritage Society President Teresa Brewer. “Over the past seven years, Mayor Turner has led our city through natural disasters, pension reform, and creating a more resilient Houston for the future. He will leave a legacy of unity – bringing together diverse people in our city and putting Houston on the global stage.”
The co-grand marshals for the parade were the Rev. Dr. Derek King, nephew of Dr. MLK Jr., and Dr. Camille Cash, M.D., a prominent Houston plastic surgeon.