Political figure Rashad Taylor will be the speaker at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day event at Hutto Middle School next Monday, Jan. 19.

The theme of this year’s MLK Observance is “Improving the Quality of Life for the Citizens of Decatur County,” with topics covering community relations, education, jobs, healthcare and housing.

For almost 15 years, Taylor has worked at the nexus of both local and national political campaigns and policymaking.

“We’re happy to have him,” event organizer Liz Tomlin said about Taylor speaking at Bainbridge’s community celebration. “He believes in community relations, healthcare and education. He feels if you become educated, that will help to eliminate problems. First you have to educate our people, then they can get a good job.”

Taylor was raised in Washington, D.C., and attended Morehouse College in Atlanta. By 21, he had successfully managed campaigns for former Rep. Alisha Morgan and former Atlanta School Board Chairman Khaatim El. He went on to serve as a lobbyist for Planned Parenthood and eventually the political director for the Democratic Party of Georgia.

He served two terms in the Georgia House of Representatives where he was elected Vice Chairman of the House Democratic Causcus, the fourth-highest ranking leadership position in the House.

During President Barack Obama’s 2012 campaign, Taylor was appointed to serve on the Platform Committee for the Democratic National Convention. His political views and opinions have been published in a number of major publications, including the Atlanta-Journal Constitution and The New York Times.

At Mack Sumner Communications, a Washington, D.C.-based mail firm, he provides communications and strategic counsel to political and non-profit clients.

Next Monday’s event at HMS, scheduled for 11:45 a.m., will follow an opening ceremony at the Decatur County Courthouse at 9:45 a.m. and the annual parade from the courthouse to the HMS gymnasium at 10:30 a.m.

Anyone looking to get involved can contact Liz Tomlin at (229) 400-6484.