MLK, Jr. commemoration events at WCU this week

CULLOWHEE, N.C. – Coinciding with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, WCU’s Department of Intercultural Affairs will host a series of events Jan. 21-26 to commemorate the late civil rights leader.

The theme for the commemoration is “Stepping into the Future. Honoring the Vision.”

On Monday, Jan. 21, the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity will host the MLK, Jr. Unity March throughout WCU’s campus followed by a birthday reception for Dr. King on the third floor of A.K. Hinds University Center in Illusions. The events will run from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 22 will include a student reenactment of Dr. King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech from the second floor balcony of the University Center at noon, as well as the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority’s annual MLK, Jr. Open Mic Night in the U.C. Illusions room from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

On Wednesday, Jan 23, keynote speaker Nikki Giovanni, a world-renowned poet, author, and activist, will speak from 7 p.m to 9 pm. in the U.C. grand room. She will follow that with a book signing and the event will also include performances by the WCU Inspirational Choir and spoken word group Truthwriters.

On Thursday, Jan. 24, there will be an intergroup dialogue on race in the Cardinal room on the second floor of the U.C. from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Seating is limited and can be registered through the Department of Intercultural Affairs.

Thursday evening, tap dancer and choreographer Savion Glover will bring his SoLe Sanctuary show to the Bardo Arts Center. To purchase tickets, call the box office at 828-227-2479.

Detailed information on all of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration events is located on the WCU Department of Intercultural Affairs event page and the WCU Office of Public Relations press release.