ADA – East Central University will honor the memory Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, Jan. 20, and Tuesday, Jan. 21, with a list of activities to commemorate the fallen civil rights leader and his cause.
A city-wide cleanup project, in King’s honor, will take place at 1 p.m. on Monday. At the request of King’s family, they would like to observe the federal holiday as more than just a day off, but one of service to the community. Those interested in participating in the project can meet at ECU’s Centennial Plaza, prior to 1 p.m. The City of Ada is providing trash bags and a dumpster.
Lisa Jacobs, president of ECU’s Brothers and Sisters United, will make a brief speech before the service project begins. The project is a collaboration between ECU and The City of Ada.
“It is up to us to keep the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. alive today. His dreams and ideas still guide political activists everywhere from the late Nelson Mandela in South Africa to Native Americans in Canada and the United States,” said Christine Pappas, professor of political science.
On Tuesday, a march is scheduled to take place at 11 a.m., beginning and ending on the Centennial Plaza. A program will follow at approximately 11:30 a.m., which includes a performance of Dr. King’s historical “I Have a Dream” speech, a presentation of awards and music from blues singer Ray Davis.
“This event is an amazing opportunity for the entire community to come together to learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s work and celebrate his 50-plus year legacy while enjoying some inspiring music,” said Chelsea Baker, librarian and chair of ECU’s Human Diversity Committee.
The events are free and open to the public.
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