How to Join San Diego's Martin Luther King Day Parade

San Diego's Martin Luther King Day Parade is an annual coming together of an incredibly disparate group of people of all colors and walks of life. You'll see students, customs officers, activists and others from all over Southern California participating in this event. However, it's one thing to watch a parade and quite another to join in and be part of the movement!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Water and snacks
• Permission to join in the parade
• Walking shoes

Make Arrangements to Join in the Parade

1. Contact the Parade sponsors, the San Diego chapter of the national fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha, to become a registered participant in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day parade (see Resources below).
2. Contact the Office of Diversity and Equity at San Diego State if you prefer to gain access to the parade that way by calling [phone]. The University is an avid supporter of this event and students of every race and age participate every year.

Find the Parade Route

3. Head to San Diego's Tailgate park just a few blocks inland from where Harbor Drive intersects with Park Boulevard. When cruise ships are docked at the harbor, the parade utilizes an inland route for safety reasons. When the harbor is free of cruise ships, the parade will wend its way up Harbor Boulevard.
4. Take San Diego's historic trolley to within one block of the parade's start point. Tailgate Park is adjacent to the city's major league stadium, Petco Park. You may also find parking at the stadium itself unless an event is being held.

Consider Your Theme

5. Make a statement about your commitment to diversity by carrying a banner that promotes social justice or by walking with a diverse group of friends. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a great orator, so carrying a sign with a quote that speaks to you can remind parade goers of Dr. King's message.
6. Know that the parade has been an annual event for more than a quarter century. Advocates of womens' rights, childrens' rights and racial equality, as well as other social justice oriented movements, can all find a voice here. Think about what message is closest to your heart and how you can best portray it in this well attended event.

Tips & Warnings

• The parade is often followed by other multicultural events. Ensure that you are properly clothed and hydrated for a lively day out.