The University of Michigan community will honor the life and legacy of civil rights leader the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. with virtual and in-person events and activities as part of the university’s annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium next month.
The theme of the 2022 symposium is “This is America,” which event organizers said will explore the images of America as defined and interpreted through history, popular culture and myriad perceptions. It also challenges the validity of these images through the lens of King’s teachings and observations.
“The diverse thematic content of ‘This Is America’ encourages communities to explore images that either build or dismantle efforts to promote a just society,” said Robert Sellers, vice provost for equity and inclusion and chief diversity officer.
“‘This Is America’ allows all disciplines to examine their commitment to social justice through practices, delivery, access, public policy, culture, research and doctrines.”
The university’s annual keynote memorial lecture will take place in Hill Auditorium at 10 a.m. Jan. 17. The lecture also will be streamed live. The keynote speaker or speakers for the lecture will be announced in the coming days.
Also, as part of the campuswide initiative to honor King, departments and units around campus will facilitate a range of activities including workshops, films, panel discussions and speakers throughout January.
The events are designed to facilitate both reflection and action toward revitalizing a commitment to the ongoing work of social justice and racial equality.
All members of the university community and the community at large are invited to observe King’s holiday and recognize his commitment to social justice and global peace.
“I am proud and look forward to the way our campus community has come together to create meaningful platforms for discussion that will engage faculty, staff and students,” Sellers said.