Detroit Mercy is celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a series of events and programs in January. Community members are invited to join students, employees, alumni and friends as the University commemorates King and prepares for Black History Month.
Tuesday, Jan. 21
Discussion: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Legacy Today
Presidents Dining Room — 12:45 to 2 p.m.
Alexander Zamalin, assistant professor of Political Science and director of the African American Studies program, and student Dohna Dudley, manager of The Hive food pantry, lead a conversation on King and his legacy, over 50 years after his contributions in America’s civil rights movement. Cookies and punch will be served but attendees are encouraged to bring a brown bag lunch.
Live Music: Jazz
Grounds Coffeehaus — 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Celebrate jazz and its influence on culture in Detroit, with local jazz group Leafar Live performing the opening act. Light refreshments will be served.
Wednesday, Jan. 22
Celebration: MLK’s Legacy, Praise and Worship Service
Fountain Lounge — 5 to 7 p.m.
Join the Detroit Mercy community for a praise and worship service. The service features the Rev. Eural Alexander of New Light Family Christian Center, located north of the McNichols Campus. Light refreshments will be served.
Tuesday, Jan. 28
Oratories: Dramatic Readings by Students
Grounds Coffeehaus — 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Detroit Mercy students deliver dramatic readings honoring King. The journey of slaves to North America and their struggles are also documented in preparation for Black History Month.
Thursday, Jan. 30
Celebration: Bending the Arc Toward Justice, Portrait Unveiling of Henry H. Tarrant ’22 and Black History Month Kickoff
Detroit Mercy School of Law — 5 to 7 p.m.
In an event that ushers in Black History Month, Detroit Mercy Law unveils a portrait of Henry H. Tarrant ’22, the University’s first known African-American law graduate. The event includes the launch of the new Henry H. Tarrant Award for Black Student Excellence and an introduction of the Association of Black Law Alumni (ABLA)’s new scholarship for African-American students. Godfrey Dillar, a civil rights trailblazer, provides remarks.
Click here for more information and to register.
Celebration: Party Night, ’90s Hip Hop
Grounds Coffeehaus — 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Dance the night away to music from the ’90s, known as the golden age of hip hop. Free food will be provided.