Harrison Mayor and City Recognized at National MLK Conference

Mayor Jerry Jackson and the Harrison Task Force on Race Relations recently traveled to Little Rock to participate in the National MLK Commission Conference, held from August 27 to 29.

During the event, Mayor Jackson worked to challenge lingering stereotypes about his community. He distributed an informational booklet titled "The Truth About the 'Most Racist Town in America' ", which aimed to correct misconceptions regarding the city. The materials were well-received, and several attendees expressed interest in visiting Harrison to experience the community's progress firsthand.

Mayor Jackson held a prominent role throughout the conference, speaking on Thursday and serving as a keynote speaker on Saturday. He shared the stage with Isaac Newton Farris, the nephew of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and an AI software developer who discussed Mahatma Gandhi's influence on the American civil rights movement.

A major highlight of the weekend was the presentation of the 2026 AMLKC Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Torch of Nonviolence Award to Mayor Jackson and the City of Harrison. Executive Director Dr. Dushun Scarbrough presented the award in recognition of the city's dedication to peace, human dignity, and the pursuit of lasting social change.

Additionally, Secretary of State Cole Jester recognized the 15-year partnership between the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission, the Race Relations Task Force, and the citizens of Harrison. Jester commended the city for its steadfast commitment to fostering respect, unity, and reconciliation.

The conference also featured a performance by the youth choir from the Samaritan Hill Missionary Baptist Church, and Pastor Bobby J. Acklin was honored for his church's 156th anniversary. The event was hosted at Shorter College, where President Dr. Jeffery Norfleet welcomed the guests and challenged them to reflect on their personal contributions to the well-being of others.

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