Submitted by Saint Martin’s University
The Saint Martin’s University community will honor the memory and legacy of human rights activist Martin Luther King, Jr. Friday, January 24, with its annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration. This event is free and open to the public, and it will take place 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Norman Worthington Conference Center, located on the Lacey campus at 5300 Pacific Ave. S.E.
Suzi Q. Smith, an American poet and spoken-word artist who is among the highest-ranked slam poets in the nation, is the keynote speaker for the event. Smith has been featured on numerous television and radio programs, and her poetry has been sampled and remixed around the globe, earning her international acclaim. She is also well-known as an activist who collaborates with organizations advocating for civil rights, peace, the arts and youth.
Several Saint Martin’s students are scheduled to make a variety of presentations during the evening, which will also include a Southern-style dinner. The Old School Fellas, an eight-piece jazz band, will provide music.
“We hope this annual program serves as a reminder to our community about the crucial need to carry on Dr. King’s vision for true social justice,” says Brittany Reed, assistant director of campus life at Saint Martin’s.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration is presented by Saint Martin’s Campus Life, the Black Student Union and the Office of Intercultural Initiatives.
