Drums and chants echoed as hundreds of marchers rallied on Monday, Jan. 19. The march was part of the Norcal MLK Foundation’s annual event to pay homage to the Selma-to-Montgomery marches and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

A march leader shouts chants for the crowd to recite.

Crowds follow police escorts through the streets of San Francisco.

The march abruptly stopped before the Lefty O’Doul Bridge, causing marchers to pivot and cross the street.

March participants wave flags as the crowd approaches Oracle Park.

Cars block the street for safety purposes.

March participants enter Yerba Buena Gardens after completing the first mile of the march.

Tab Buckner, a gay man of European descent, said participating in the march was a meaningful way for him to push for equal rights after experiencing homophobia and recognizing a common struggle with people of color, women, and other marginalized groups. Growing up, Buckner witnessed poverty and the civil rights movement, which he said left a profound impact on him.

“I saw people struggle. I heard racist language in the community, and I felt that Dr King was an extraordinary example of how we’re all better as individuals and as a community if we understand what we have in common as opposed to what’s different from us. And that diversity indeed is a beautiful thing. It makes the world much more rich and fulfilling to just have that.” Buckner said.

An introductory speaker welcomes the audience and explains the significance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

A singer performs “I Feel Your Spirit” by Hezekiah Walker to thousands at Yerba Buena Gardens.

A singer gestures while performing.