By Amy Woods

The keynote speaker of the Martin Luther King Jr. Brunch is an Atlanta native, a Morehouse College graduate and an Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity brother.

Bill Nix, the former vice president of marketing and government affairs for the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County, shares each of those things in common with the man he will be 31045438269?profile=RESIZE_180x180talking about at the Jan. 19 fundraiser for the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum.

“Our families have known each other for a long, long time,” Nix said, noting that his grandparents knew Martin Luther King Sr., his father knew Martin Luther King Jr., and his mother knew Martin Luther King Jr.’s sister, Christine King.

When King was assassinated in 1968, Nix was a senior at Morehouse, a men’s liberal arts school, and served as a member of the honor guard surrounding the casket.

“I’ve not ever given the story of what happened the night he was shot, but I have given parts of the story of Martin Luther King’s ascension into who he became,” Nix said. “I need to tell that story, especially for this generation, right now.”

The 25th anniversary of the Martin Luther King Jr. Brunch not only will feature Nix’s powerful address but also the theatrical talents of the Core Ensemble, whose actors will portray Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston during a series of reenactments. The signature community event attracts more than 300 guests.

“I sincerely hope my presentation moves the room,” Nix said, adding that he also is going to discuss the 60 years of progress made possible by the Voting Rights Act. 

“If we don’t like what’s going on, it’s the one thing we can and should do to change the country. We need this year, really, and every year, actually, to get out and vote. People died because of this.” 

If You Go

What: Martin Luther King Jr. Brunch to benefit Spady Cultural Heritage Museum

When: 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 19

Where: Indian Spring Country Club, Boynton Beach

Cost: $55

Information: 561-279-8883; spadymuseum.com

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