The 34th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Learning commenced with a procession from Harry C. Moore’s Student Union to Mees Auditorium.
The procession was led Brothers and Esquires of Alpha Rho Lambda, Columbus’s chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
University Pastor Dan Hille led the morning’s meditation.
He spoke of courage and strength, and discussed using Jan. 20 as a day to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy. He encouraged the audience to measure themselves according to the morals and values of Dr. King.
Following the presentation of Martin Luther King, Jr. Spirit Award and the Inclusive Excellence Leadership Award, State Representative and Assistant Minority Leader Dontavius Jarrells gave the keynote address.
Rep. Jarrells is currently the highest-serving Black man in the Ohio General Assembly.
During his address, Rep. Jarrells applauded Dr. King for being “a dreamer and a disruptor.” Rep. Jarrells said that in this era, it is imperative to uphold the example set by Dr. King.
He concluded his address by emphasizing that Dr. King “called America into account.” To answer this call, society must not leave Dr. King’s dreams on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.
Instead, by acting courageously and serving selflessly, Rep. Jarrells said university students can build a campus, community, state and nation that society deserves.
What students enjoyed most about the opening ceremony was Gregory J. Watkins and the Worship & Praise Chorale.
One student remarked, “I do not know how so few people made such great sounds.”
Other students said the performances were so “joyous,” “lively” and “moving.”
The morning concluded with Robert Fleming, a member of the Steering Committee, leading the closing song “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing.”
The afternoon was filled with activities, such as workshops, including one led by RISE, and The Hank Marr Jazz Luncheon.
RISE is a national nonprofit that built a curriculum to educate sports administrators/staff, coaches and athletes on topics of diversity and inclusion.
RISE has worked with the university’s student-athlete population to empower and help them be leaders and champions of social justice.
At the luncheon, southern-style food is served to symbolize what “Dr. King may have enjoyed on a Sunday following church services.”
A jazz band played melodic tunes to accompany the lunch.
New this year, in the lobby of the student union, there was a local and small business market. Small businesses were invited to share their products with the university’s community.
Author and entrepreneur Kendra Spencer attended the market to promote her novels.
Tracey Sheares with ReBejeweled Accessories works with clientele to match them with jewelry that makes them feel confident.
