Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson to speak at Rodney King's funeral
The Revs. Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson will be attending a public memorial for Rodney King on Saturday, a King family spokeswoman said.
They are expected to speak after a 2 p.m. service and dedication ceremony at the Forest Lawn Hall of Liberty in Hollywood Hills, spokeswoman Kali Bowyer said. King's family and friends also will make remarks, along with screenwriter and producer Deidra Wayans and radio host Margaret Prescod.
King, who became a symbol for civil rights after his brutal beating by police helped spark the 1992 Los Angeles riots, was found dead June 17 in a backyard swimming pool at his Rialto home.
PHOTOS: Rodney King | 1965- 2012
"Rodney's death creates a great measure of sadness," Jackson said in a statement after King's death. "He had become a fixture in our lives through both the tragedy and triumphs of his life."
Bowyer said the family has “the majority” of funeral costs covered but still seeks donations to help cover flowers, programs, unpaid bills and other costs.
Kings’ three daughters have established the Rodney Glen King Memorial Fund through Bank of America in Los Angeles County. Bowyer said interested donors may contribute by calling or visiting a branch.
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Rodney King memorial set for Saturday; family seeks donations
— Kate Mather
Photo: Rodney King at his home in Rialto in March. Credit: Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times
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