Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that!"

-Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Strength to Love, 1963).

The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion held our 2^nd annual commemorative celebration in honor of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at the amphitheater in the Wojcik Conference Center from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. with approximately 180 attendees. Highlights included the inaugural Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Excellence in Service Award, which was presented to Darlett Bernard, Sodexo Catering Supervisor. Our very own Dr. Shante’ Holley, Professor, English Department, served as our keynote speaker and reminded us to always keep the why at the center of our work. Lastly, we enjoyed a renowned Chicago style steppin’ performance. A soul food lunch followed the celebration. Our sincere thanks to all those that attended, volunteered and participated in the formal program. Click here to view the 2024 commemorative celebration video!

Click here to view the 2023 commemorative celebration video which featured keynote speaker Ms. Joanne Bland, one of the youngest civil rights activists during Dr. King’s era. Ms. Bland shared some of the firsthand encounters and experiences she endured during the civil rights movement. Our program also highlighted strategies and ways to heed Dr. King’s call to activism, equity, inclusion, and social justice.

(President Barack Obama and Ms. JoAnne Bland)

Dr. King was a trailblazer and beacon of hope for many, and we must continue his legacy through community activism and a collective commitment to social justice! Below are a few highlights from the annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. commemorative celebrations!