Newport News shipbuilders gathered last Friday to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The ninth annual MLK Day Celebration took place at the old Apprentice School gym with separate events to accommodate all three shifts.

Thomasina Wright, vice president of Fleet Support Programs, gave the keynote address and spoke of meeting members of the Little Rock Nine, the civil rights pioneers who visited NNS last month as sponsors of Arkansas (SSN 800). The submarine was christened Dec. 7.

As high school students in Arkansas, the Little Rock Nine faced fierce resistance and threats while integrating what was previously an all-white high school.

“These brave students stood firm in their conviction, embodying the spirit of resilience that Dr. King championed,” Wright said. “They knew that the right thing was not always the easy thing, but they pressed on, paving the way for generations to come. Their courage reminds us that it is our duty to confront injustice, no matter how difficult it may seem.”

The celebration featured a live performance by Nishae Falu (X33), of her song “Safety First,” which won the NNS 2024 Safety Song Contest.

The celebration made an impression on new and veteran shipbuilders alike.

Dorothy Munoz (X33), is a first-year shipbuilder, and she was impressed at the crowd that packed the gym for the noon event.

“For me, it was very informative, knowing that the company cares about us,” she said. “It was a great turnout. This is my first year here, so to see this — I’m ready for next year.”

Master Shipbuilder Darryl Ashe (X33) was attending his final MLK celebration for the company. He’s attended the eight previous events and will retire in April.

“I think it’s important to show up for unity and let people know that we don’t have to be divided. We can come together,” he said. “It’s bittersweet for me. I definitely wanted to make this last event.”