Mercyhurst slates weeklong observance remembering Martin Luther King Jr.

Mercyhurst University has slated a full week of events in observance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, beginning Monday, Jan. 16.

In the alcove just west of the President’s Office, faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to stop by for public readings and reflections between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Sponsored by Campus Ministry, this event will highlight communications by King, a man whose words are known to be both powerful and deeply meaningful.

Here’s just a sampling of his many messages:

"If we are to have peace on earth, our loyalties must become ecumenical rather than sectional. Our loyalties must transcend our race, our tribe, our class, and our nation; and this means we must develop a world perspective." Christmas sermon, Atlanta, Georgia, 1967.

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” From King’s book, “Strength of Love”

"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."  "I Have A Dream" speech, August 28, 1963

On Tuesday, Jan. 17, between noon and 2 p.m., the Student Union Great Room will provide the setting to create winter care packages for the homeless.

On Thursday, Jan. 19, the university will host a live performance and multimedia tribute to King by Key Arts Production. A free lunch will be provided by Mercyhurst Student Government and Black Students for Unity. This event is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Mercy Heritage Room.

Finally, on Friday, Jan. 20, the community is invited to gather for the grand opening of the new Multicultural Student Lounge on the second floor of the Student Union from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided.

"As we come together for this week of community in remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I want to offer a simple observation. Every little bit helps,” said Jessica Hubert, Multicultural and Inclusion coordinator. “Every little act of service contributes to the wide goal of change. In the words of Dr. King, "justice too long delayed is justice denied." We all must strive to act in some way, no matter how large it is, to add our voice to the fight against injustice."