HOUSTON: The 1st Inaugural MLK Grande Unity Gala and MLK Unity Parade marked a powerful and inspiring moment in history, uniting people from all walks of life to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his vision of equality, justice, and togetherness.
These landmark events brought together the introduction of the organization’s scholarship program and creating the “Krishna and Lakshmi Vavilala Scholarship”.
Dr. Charles Stamps-CEO of MLK Grande Parade, Dr. Lynette Reddix-Founder of No Sister Left Behind, and Mr. Krishna Vavilala-Founder Chairman of the Foundation for India Studies (FIS) are respected community leaders. They joined together to create scholarships for some Texas Southern University students and students in the India Studies program.
Demonstrating unity in action, Dr. Charles Stamps, Krishna Vavilala , and Dr. Lynette Reddix stood together as symbols of leadership, cultural impact, and social responsibility. Their presence highlighted the importance of collaboration across industries, communities, and generations to foster meaningful educational change.
Adding to the powerful message of inclusivity, the leaders joined at the MLK Unity Parade where Mr. Krishna Vavilala “MLK Living the Dream” Honoree rode in a horse drawn carriage accompanied by his wife Mrs. Lakshmi Vavilala. As we continue to engaging in meaningful dialogue about unity beyond race, creed, culture, or background, Together, we emphasized that regardless of differences, humanity is strongest when standing as one people, united in purpose and compassion.
The MLK Unity Parade served not only as a celebration but also as a call to action—encouraging communities worldwide to embrace diversity, uplift one another, and continue building bridges of understanding and respect.
This historic inaugural Gala event has set the foundation for an annual tradition dedicated to unity, peace, and the shared belief that together, we are stronger.
Accepting the award, Mr. Vavilala said, the bridge between the Indian community and the Black community is not a new one. It was already built decades ago when Dr. King looked to the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi to find the power of non-violence. He said, his organization, Foundation for India Studies routinely participated in MLK Parades in order to strengthen that bridge and invitedothers to do the same.
Mr. Vavilala added, we share more than just a city or neighborhood; we share the same values, the same love for family, and the same dream of a world where our children are judged only by their character and competence, not the color of their skin.
He added, my honor today belongs to everyone who chose conversation over silence and connection over comfort and let us continue to weave this “garment of destiny” together”.
