King's life and legacy commemorated
College events reflect upon Martin Luther King Jr.
Posted January 13, 2005
(Portland, Ore.)— Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. visited Lewis & Clark College in November 1961 and talked about the future of integration. More than four decades later, the campus will reflect on, discuss and celebrate the civil rights leader’s life and legacy in observation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 17.
The college will focus on King through a series of workshops, a keynote address, panel discussions and music. The commemoration is titled “It Takes Every Voice to Create Community.” All events are free and open to the public.
“Our goal is to keep Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy alive,” said David B. Rosengard, resident director at Lewis & Clark and commemoration adviser. “That legacy includes a commitment to respect civil rights, and nonviolence. This is particularly critical for a liberal arts college where we embrace Dr. King’s ideals of respect, justice, determination, and a celebration of diversity.”
Students, faculty, staff and community members will take part in the programs, which range from panel discussions to musical presentations.
Jaiya John, founder and executive director of Soul Water Rising, will give the keynote address. John’s organization is devoted to improving human relations, combating prejudice and fostering spiritual growth. John has appeared on CNN and National Public Radio. He is the author of “Black Baby White Hands: A View from the Crib” (Soul Water, 2002). He earned his doctorate from the University of California at Santa Cruz.
“Dr. King dreamed of a world that would recognize and appreciate diversity,” said Rosengard. “We hope that this campus commemoration of his life and work will reconfirm people’s understanding of his political, philosophical and spiritual legacy.”
Highlights of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day events include:
10 a.m. Exploring Cultural Competency
A workshop examining cultural competency, promoting diversity, and finding understanding. Thayer Rooms, Templeton Student Center.
1 p.m. Reality Check
A student-created program that challenges assumptions about who contributes to a diverse community. Council Chamber, Templeton Student Center.
2:15 p.m. Concurrent Sessions
Beyond “I Have a Dream”
An examination of King’s speeches, with attention to historical context and impact. Stamm West, Templeton Student Center.
Gandhi and Nonviolent Political Movement
An examination of the foundation on modern nonviolence theory. Stamm East, Templeton Student Center.
Implicit Attitude and Unseen Bias
An exploration of how society’s unseen biases impact individual lives. Thayer Rooms, Templeton Student Center.
4 p.m. It Takes Every Voice to Create Community
Keynote address by Jaiya John, founder and executive director of Soul Water Rising. Council Chamber, Templeton Student Center.
7 p.m. Celebration
The chapel service includes readings from Dr. King’s works and a performance by Remember the Hope Christian Fellowship Gospel group The evening concludes with a candlelight vigil. Agnes Flanagan Chapel.
Sponsors for the events include the offices of the dean of the college, the chapel, student affairs, ethnic student services, Diversity Cluster and Black Student Union. A schedule of events is available online.
###
For more information, please contact:
Tania Thompson
Senior Communications Officer
503-768-7961
taniat@lclark.edu
| 
