About the MLK Day Celebration
Driven By The Dream
2024 marks the 56th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, which occurred on April 4, 1968, along with the founding of the Martin Luther King Memorial Center in Atlanta 56 years ago.
On Monday, January 20, 1986, the United States observed the first national holiday honoring the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It is also the day that Eastern Michigan University hosted its first MLK President’s Luncheon under the leadership of the late President John W. Porter. As we prepare to commemorate the 38th anniversary of this auspicious celebration, we do so with a keen awareness of current challenges on EMU's campus and communities across the U.S.
In more recent times, acts of overt and covert racism have plagued America, sharing remnants of the country's climate during the Civil Rights Movement over 50 years ago. Eastern Michigan has been no exception, citing racist incidents that have affected the hearts and minds of many in our community over the years. It is in the hands of students, staff, faculty, administrators and community members to engage in dialogue and take positive action to combat this climate and embrace a better future.
The 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration theme of "Driven By The Dream,” captures the essence of the ongoing nature of our work and the need to use the power of our collective voices to address racial injustice.
We look forward to providing a week-long, wide ranging in-person activities that acknowledge and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and invite our campus and community members to join together in this important celebration.
The movement for civil rights and social justice is far from over. It is our hope that this year’s events and discussions will encourage and galvanize each of us to continue to act for change. Please join us as we explore, inform, and inspire the entire EMU and wider community to engage in meaningful action in order to foster a more ideal and just society for all.