Since 1986, WSU has put on an annual, week-long program honoring Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life. This year’s events are centered around the theme, “Keep on Pushing: Building Bridges to Sustainability.” Join the community in vibrant musical performances, creative read-outs and critical discussions on campus from Jan. 20—24.
Caring Cougar Cards
Where: CUB 206 or via Zoom
When: noon—1 p.m. Friday
What: Create greeting cards with WSU students, faculty and alumni that will be delivered to local community partners like local hospitals, charities and shelters. Materials provided in-person; instructions are emailed to online participants.
Registration: needed for online participants only
Day of Service
When: All day Monday
What: The Center of Civic Engagement encourages students to use this “Day of Service” as a way to give back to the community. Visit GivePulse for opportunities to serve this MLK week.
Virtual Opening Welcome & Panel Discussion
Where: Virtual, via Zoom
When: 9:10—10:30 a.m. Tuesday
What: Official welcome to the program’s kickoff, featuring a moderated faculty panel discussion on continuing community issues, especially centered around the theme for this year, “Bridging Divides to Sustainability.”
Healing Wall Mural
Where: CUB
When: 10 a.m.—3 p.m. Tuesday
What: Led by Jiemi Lin and her team, watch as they work on the Mural specially designed for the National Day of Racial Healing.
Drum Circle
Where: Terrell Library Atrium
When: 12:10—1 p.m. Tuesday
What: Follow Assistant Professor Darryl Singleton in a drum circle, creating music to cultivate a sense of community and celebration. All are invited to participate in the circle, regardless of experience.
Writers Give Voice – Open Mic
Where: Pavilion Gallery, or via livestream on WSU Global’s YouTube channel
When: 1:45—2:45 p.m. Tuesday
What: Hosted by the museum and English Department, Writers Give Voice is an open mic poetry event following the theme of the week, “Bridging Divides to Sustainability.” The community is invited to bring and read a poem that fits the day’s theme, either original or selected. There will also be an opportunity to have letterpress printing of a relevant poem, provided by Holland Terrell Library’s Manuscripts, Archives and Special Collections.
Film Night
Where: CUB Auditorium
When: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday
What: Feature of Cord Jefferson’s 2023 debut film, “American Fiction,” a satirical look at the stereotypes and expectations black people face in popular culture.
WSU Keynote Celebration + MLK Legacy Awards
Where: CUB Senior Ballroom and online
When: 5:30 p.m. Thursday
What: Features a speech by keynote speaker and social justice advocate, Rhonda V. Magee, and followed with musical performances by God’s Harmony and the Campus Civic Poet Winner, Krimson Kouture. Afterwards, the MLK Legacy Awards will be presented, focused on awarding community individuals who embody Dr. King’s vision.
Register on the WSU events website.
View the full schedule across all campuses on the official MLK Week website.
