Creative ways to remember Martin Luther King Jr.
ALPENA, Mich. – Monday January 18th marks the 26th anniversary of Martin Luther King Rr. day in the U.S. The pandemic has affected many ceremonies, parades and events throughout the country this year.
Alpena’s MLK committee has hosted a documentary series on race and an essay contest, but here are some other creative ways to honor the day COVID style as you gear up for the holiday with your children or family.
You can write a birthday card to Dr. King, prompt them to think about King’s “I have a dream” speech, or how his dream has been recognized today.
Also, watch and discuss Dr. King’s I have a dream speech in detail.
You can also go on a virtual visit to the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, or even listen to music of the civil rights era.
There are many virtual events around the country that you can attend in the comfort of your home this year.
Regional events:
National Civil Rights Museum Event-
https://www.civilrightsmuseum.org/king-day
Michigan State University-
https://msutoday.msu.edu/news/2021/msus-2021-mlk-day-celebration-features-packed-itinerary-of-virtual-events
Saginaw Valley State University-
The university has partnered with regional businesses, chambers of commerce and community foundations to work together to present a celebration of the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. This seventh annual event will be held virtually and will feature a keynote speaker with a Q&A and presentation of the MLK Scholarship Awards and the regional Drum Major Awards. The keynote speaker will be Van Jones, a political contributor for CNN. The event will be held from 7 – 8:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 18. This will be a virtual event. For questions and registration for the event, visit here.
Delta College Black Faculty and Staff Association WITH Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Iota Chi Lambda –
The Annual Martin Luther King Jr. event usually includes a unity march and luncheon, but due to the COVID-19, the event will take place online. This year’s event is titled “Dr. King’s Dream: A time to heal and unite.” Frontline heroes from the medical industry and leaders who have helped aide with food insecurity problems during the pandemic will be recognized. The event will be held on the organizations Facebook page.
The Michigan Community Service Commission announced it will help support 56 Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service volunteer projects engaging more than 5,000 volunteers who will serve more than 16,000 volunteer hours to benefit Michigan communities.
Projects include providing child-size masks to youth serving organizations and thanking healthcare workers for the care given to Michigan residents. Organizations have also planned projects to address community needs related to COVID-19 including food distribution events, providing support for the homeless, addressing mental health needs and providing education and tools to prevent the spread of infection.
The Michigan Community Service Commission is awarding more than $20,000 in grants to organizations ranging from $100 to $1,000 to help communities recover from the impact of COVID-19. Funding has also been provided by partners AmeriCorps the Agency and Youth Service America through the Allstate Foundation.
