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Benton Harbor, St. Joseph plan to erect King statues

From the archives: Photos of Martin Luther King Jr. and his lasting impact
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BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Two neighboring cities in southwestern Michigan are making a public commitment to social justice by installing statues of Martin Luther King Jr. in both communities.

Benton Harbor is 84% Black, and St. Joseph is 84% white. Each city will also erect separate statues of a resident who is remembered as a social justice leader in each city. Benton Harbor Commissioner Edward Isom says art has a unique ability to enhance both communities. The Herald-Palladium reports that the goal is to have the statues up in 2022. Donations will be accepted.