As part of our most recent look back in history, we were reminded of these eternal words: “If you can’t fly, then run; if you can’t run, then walk; if you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to the nonviolent struggle for civil rights in the United States. King’s leadership played a pivotal role in ending entrenched segregation for African Americans and in the creation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, considered a crowning achievement of the civil rights era. King was assassinated in 1968, but his words and legacy continue to resonate for all those seeking justice in the United States and around the world. As King said at the Washington National Cathedral on March 31, 1968, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” (https://www.history.com/mlk)
As we reflect locally on Dr. King’s legacy, the world expresses gratitude for his advancement of Black Americans and his impact on human rights. While black and brown communities continue to grapple with inequality and injustice, Dr. King paved the way toward social and economic justice for all. As we remember his life, let’s use today as an opportunity to reflect on his impact and engage in service.
Mercer County Community College’s James Kerney campus at 102 North Broad Street celebrates today with lunch at 12:30 pm. At 2 pm, performers and speakers will celebrate the life of Rev. King through words, dance, and song. This year’s keynote speaker is the Rev. Toby Sanders, who will speak on the topic. Visit http://www.mccc.edu/mlk_dos or email dentons@mccc.edu for more information.
Also, Capital Harmony Works, a Trenton-based coalition of young singers, musicians, and performers, is hosting its 7th Annual Martin Luther King Day Concert today. This year’s community concert will be hosted at Trinity Church in Princeton, 33 Mercer St., Princeton, NJ, 08540. The show will be held today from 6–7 pm. The theme of this year’s performance is We Shall Overcome, a nod to the iconic mantra of the civil rights movement. All proceeds from this year’s event will benefit Arm in Arm, a community organization that provides individuals in need with food, housing services, and more. No tickets are needed for the event, but please come prepared with a monetary donation for Arm in Arm or a non-perishable food item to be donated to the food bank.
This Week in History: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
