After the 27th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Walk that began on Wednesday, Jan. 22, at the Jesus Church of Russellville on East Fifth Street, the Celebration continued at the Historic Old Courthouse at West Fourth and Winter streets.
“Faith-Driven Advocacy for Health Equity and Social Justice: Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Charles Neblett” was the theme.
The following preview of what was to be said was shared with The LoJo by NiCole Gipson of NGPR & Strategic Communications:
A powerful keynote address dedicated to commemorating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. while celebrating the legacy of Dr. Charles Neblett—a civil rights leader, Freedom Singer, and advocate for health equity. This speech intends to inspire community action and call upon the next generation to lead with faith, courage, and resilience.
Introduction: The Power of Purpose
At the 27th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Walk Celebration. Today, we walk not only to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., but to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Charles Neblett—a husband, father, civil rights icon, Freedom Singer, and a warrior in the fight for health equity.
Charles Neblett is not just a civil rights leader—he is a voice of hope, resilience, and faith. His voice didn’t just sing for freedom—it called people to act. His footsteps didn’t just march for justice—they paved pathways for others to follow. His story reminds us that in the face of adversity, the strongest minds, bodies, and spirits arise to push forward toward equality.
In 1955, when Charles was just 14 years old, the brutal murder of Emmett Till, a boy his age, changed his life forever. Emmett’s death wasn’t just a tragedy—it was a call to action. It made young Charles understand that the fight for freedom wasn’t optional—it was essential.
Isaiah 1:17 tells us: “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” These words remind us that justice is not passive—it requires courage, sacrifice, and action.”
The March at Edmund Pettus Bridge: Pathways in Song
“One of the most defining moments of the civil rights movement was the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama—a march for voting rights, dignity, and justice. Charles Neblett didn’t just witness history—he made it.
He walked alongside civil rights giants like John Lewis, Harry Belafonte, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., leading the masses in song. The bridge, a symbol of oppression, became a pathway to progress because men and women, armed only with their voices, their faith, and their resilience, refused to turn back.
The songs they sang were more than melodies—they were calls to action rooted in Negro spirituals, songs born from the pain and hope of enslaved ancestors. Spirituals like “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around” were reimagined as anthems that fueled the movement. They sang:
“I’m gonna keep on a-walkin’, keep on a-talkin’
Marchin’ up to freedom land.”
This was no ordinary music—it was protest in harmony. The songs that had once filled church pews were now filling the streets, calling for actionable change. Psalm 68:5 says: “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling.” The Freedom Singers, led by voices like Charles’, reminded the oppressed that they were not alone.”
Turning National Movements Into Local Action
“As history has shown us, the most profound acts of change often begin in local communities. The leaders in Selma understood that they weren’t just marching for laws to be passed—they were marching so that everyday people could vote, advocate, and thrive.
That same lesson holds true today. While national headlines may focus on major events, real change begins when we take action where we live. Just as Charles Neblett marched for voting rights, today’s youth must see that voting is one of the most powerful tools of change.
But activism is more than just casting a vote—it’s about showing up for your community. It’s about advocating for policies that ensure equal access to education and health care. It’s about caring for your neighbors and loved ones by encouraging health screenings and sharing vital information.”
The Legacy of Fundraising: Then and Now
“The Freedom Singers didn’t just inspire through song—they raised critical funds for the civil rights movement. Their performances covered legal fees for jailed activists, bail money for protestors, and transportation for organizers. Their songs weren’t just music—they were lifelines for the movement.
Decades later, Charles’ son Kwesi Neblett carried on that legacy of activism and fundraising. In honor of his father, Kwesi launched the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge—a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about prostate cancer and health equity. Through this campaign, Black men across the nation were encouraged to get screened, share their stories, and inspire others to prioritize their health.
The campaign reached thousands, fostering a culture of proactive health care and raising funds for health screenings and education. Kwesi’s efforts echo the scripture in Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Just as the Freedom Singers helped fund the fight for justice, Kwesias helped fund the fight for health equity.
Today, the movement has come full circle—returning home to Russellville, where Community Projects, Inc. and KET’s Kentucky Health are building a local health initiative focused on outreach, education, and support. To the students here: This is your time. You can be leaders in your schools and communities, just as Charles Neblett was as a teenager.”
The Legacy of Service in Logan County
“When the marches ended, Charles didn’t retire—he came home to continue the work of justice. He co-founded the Russellville-Logan County NAACP and became the Chairperson for Logan County Community Action, leading initiatives that addressed poverty, education, and access to resources.
Through Community Projects, Inc., Charles created programs that empowered youth and built community strength. Under his leadership:
• Young people were mentored through cultural and educational programs.
• Hampton Park was expanded into a thriving space for fellowship and celebration.
• Voter registration drives were launched, ensuring every community member knew the power of their vote.
His life reflects Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
Faith, Family, and Resilience
“Charles Neblett’s greatest legacy is his family. He and his beloved wife, Marvinia Neblett, have been married for more than 50 years. Together, they raised six children who carry their father’s legacy across the country, leading efforts in social justice, health equity, and education.
His son Kwesi spoke about his father in Medium Magazine:
“My father taught me that leadership is not about standing above people—it’s about standing with them, showing them that they’re not alone, and lifting them up when they can’t lift themselves.”
Charles’ leadership wasn’t about fame—it was about service. His children learned that service and love were their family’s greatest inheritance.”
Prostate Cancer Advocacy and Health Equity
“Even as he battled stage 4 metastatic prostate cancer, Charles Neblett didn’t stop advocating for justice. His fight became a public call to action through the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge.
Why does this matter?
• Black men are 70 percent more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than white men.
• They are twice as likely to die from it.
• Rural communities in Kentucky face additional barriers like limited health care access and transportation issues.
Charles’ story reminds us of John 1:2: “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” His life calls us to make health care a priority—for ourselves and our communities.”
A Call to Students and Future Leaders
“To the students in this audience: The fight for justice is not a history lesson—it’s a calling. Charles Neblett began his fight as a teenager, just like you.
Ask yourselves:
• How can I use my voice to advocate for justice in my school or community?
• How can I help my peers make healthy choices?
• How can I be an advocate for my family and neighbors?
1 Timothy 4:12 reminds us: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” Leadership doesn’t require a title—it requires courage, faith, and action.
Faith, Legacy, and Unity
“Dr. King said, ‘Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane.’ Charles Neblett’s life is proof that justice is about more than marching—it’s about building legacies of love, faith, and service for future generations.”
Closing and Call to Action
“As we prepare to walk, remember that we walk for those who came before us and those who will come after us. We walk for Coretta Scott King, who dedicated her life to justice but lost her battle with cancer. We walk in solidarity with Dr. Neblett, who reminds us that every step matters.
Thank you for your faith, your generosity, and your commitment to justice. Let’s walk forward—together in unity, in love, and in purpose. Thank you.”