The 45th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration at Michigan State University will occur from Jan. 16-24, 2025. MSU students, faculty, staff and the local community are invited to participate in this weeklong series of events honoring Dr. King's enduring legacy.
This year, the celebration commemorates Dr. King and the continuation of progress for civil rights, offering an opportunity for the MSU community to reflect on our shared history, engage in meaningful dialogue, and explore ways to support historically underrepresented groups on campus.
The MLK Planning Committee, with university-wide representation and support from the Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion and the Office of the Provost, has coordinated a diverse range of events. This year's exciting lineup includes the following highlights:
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Unity Dinner: Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center. This event fosters community engagement and reflection on Dr. King's legacy. The 2025 keynote speaker is DEIB Practitioner and Scholar Sharon Chia Claros. Registration is required, and seating is limited. Established in 2004, this year’s commemorative dinner was planned by Dreux Baker and Karen Stowell from Residence Education and Housing Services, and co-hosted by Baker along with Kassidy Do, chief diversity and inclusion officer with the Residence Halls Association.
- Jazz - Spirituals, Prayer and Protest Concert: Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, at 3 p.m. at the Fairchild Theatre. In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, the concert will feature music inspired by his message of equality and justice. The MSU Jazz Orchestra I, along with jazz vocalists from the program and alumni, will perform a diverse selection of songs that embody the theme of “I Have a Dream for the World.”
- Stuff the Library Book Drive: This annual drive, running through Feb. 28, supports Lansing Public Schools this year. It focuses on filling libraries with books on social justice topics and characters representing diverse backgrounds. Learn how you can donate.
A special highlight this year includes significant contributions by the MLK Commemorative Student Committee, who have worked hard to organize meaningful student-led events that focus on building community and sharing dialogue.
“It’s truly an honor to help create events that bring our community together in celebration of Dr. King’s legacy. I find great joy in crafting experiences that allow our students to connect, reflect, and grow. We have an exciting lineup of events this year, and I genuinely hope to see everyone there,” said Jakaira Lynn, graduate student co-chair for the MLK Commemorative Student Committee. She leads the student subcommittee along with Kaden Johnson, undergraduate student co-chair.
Several events developed by student leaders are highlighted below:
- Weekend Wellness: A Dreamer’s Mindset Event: Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, from 5 p.m. to midnight at IM East. In addition to "Spartan Glow and Flow" roller skating for families and students, the event will feature an informational health and wellness fair, workshops focused on being proactive with health and wellness, and activity stations. Skates will be provided free of charge to all participants. Giveaways and food will be provided. All participants will receive t-shirts while supplies last.
- MLK Student Symposium: Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, from 2:45 to 6:45 p.m. at the MSU Union. The inaugural symposium features keynote speakers, presentations, entertainment and a soul food dinner as well as an informational and student organizational resource fair. With the theme Voices of the Dream: For Us, By Us, the powerful student-led symposium will empower Spartans to raise their voices and advocate for themselves on critical issues faced while attending a Predominantly White Institution. The event is free for MSU students. Registration is required no later than Jan. 15.
- MLK Commemorative March: Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, at 9 a.m. The March will begin at Beaumont Tower and end at the new Multicultural Center. A reception will be held at the Multicultural Center after the March.
“The annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration at MSU is a powerful opportunity for our Spartan community to come together, reflect on his teachings and recommit ourselves to collectively creating a campus and world where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered," said Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D.
We encourage all members of the MSU community to participate in these events as we honor Dr. King's legacy and reaffirm our commitment to civil rights, equity and social justice. For a comprehensive listing of events, including registration and other details, please visit the MLK events calendar.