MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The 24th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day justice program took place at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Milwaukee Monday.

Hundreds of people gathered to honor Dr. King's legacy. Organizers say it’s important to celebrate his fight for civil rights not just on MLK Day, but every day.

“Literally transformed our nation,” said organizer Brian Verdin.

Dr. King’s legacy was celebrated with music, spoken word, and a reminder to all those in attendance to speak out against injustices.

“You know, it’s one thing to talk about what has been done. It’s another thing to talk about what needs to be done and what people are doing,” said organizer Jarrett English.

Those at the MLK Jr. Day justice program celebrated the program that started 24 years ago. This year’s theme for the program was, “We Are Not Afraid.” In years past, people have marched to Dr. King’s statue on the 1700 block of Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, but that march was cancelled because of the bitter cold.

“Brings so many different folks together from so many different parts of Milwaukee,” said English.

Verdin says he watched Dr. King lead the civil rights movement as a child and was inspired to continue his work.

“I’m a living witness to the fact that it was a very powerful movement and it’s important to teach our young people, especially, the importance of this movement, the importance of continuing Dr. King’s legacy, and we still need that movement today,” said Verdin.

Organizers say they hope people practice Dr. King’s legacy and keep his message alive.

“Regardless of what happens, we continue to fight,” said English.