Continuing the dream: Celebrating MLK Day at TU
Each year on the third Monday in January, the nation dedicates a day to MLK and his legacy
By Towson University on January 15, 2023
To honor the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., communities are encouraged to create a more inclusive environment.
Towson University pushes to continue King's dream through inclusive higher education. This past year, TU received the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award for the third year in a row. TU is considered one of the most diverse higher education institutions in the nation, and building an equitable campus community is at the forefront of the university’s mission.
As part of this ongoing commitment, a five-year diversity strategic plan has been established. As the diversity of the student population steadily increases, the campus aims to be a destination where every member of the community feels an authentic sense of belonging no matter who they are.
The Office of Inclusion and Institutional Equity and its departments, including the Center for Student Diversity, hosts inclusive and identity-based programming year-long. In remembrance of King’s influential leadership and to kick off Black History month, the CSD will host the annual Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Celebration to be held on Feb. 1 from 5:30-7 p.m. in the University Union Ballrooms D & E.
on
"This year’s theme, Deconstructing the Movement: Examining the Continuing Fight for Civil & Human Rights, speaks to the idea that moments make movements,” said Dr. Keiwana Perryman, event coordinator and CSD associate director. "As we are currently in yet another 'moment' in the journey toward equity and inclusion, our keynote speaker, Vernon A. Wall, seeks to reaffirm our commitment to the phrase: 'With Liberty & Justice for ALL.'"
Walls is a social justice educator and advocate who has given lectures across America. The celebration also includes artistic performances from George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology dance students, as well as TU’s Black Theatre Troupe and African Diaspora Club.
“People believe that MLK was a historical figure from many moons ago, but in reality he lived during a time that was not so long ago,” reflected Perryman. “It is important that we continue to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts he led, in partnership with others,to improve the lives of so many, not just Black folks.”
Save the date: more CSD Black History Month events
Taste of the Diaspora | Tuesday, Feb. 7 | 6-8 p.m. | University Union Ballroom D&E
A showcase of diasporic organizations (African Diaspora Club, Black Student Union,
Caribbean Student Associatio, Ethiopian-Eritrean Student Association, Latin American
Student Organization), their music, food and culture.
Literacy in Black | Friday, Feb. 17 | 10-11:30 a.m. | Zoned for Kids
A service project to engage preschool children with literature that captures the essence
of diversity.
Seasons of Love | Tuesday, Feb. 21 | 7-8:30 p.m. | University Union Theatre
An exploration of the romantic relationships between Black couples, highlighting the
various “seasons” of love.