Page last updated on April 4, 2025 at 12:38 pm
Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
A Message from the Commission-
“We are all tied together in a single garment of destiny.”
— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
As we approach the 57th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination, our nation stands at a critical crossroads. The limits of our founding legal documents are being stretched to the brink of distortion, and our progress toward realizing the ideals of justice and equality has significantly regressed. In times like these, it is essential to remember how far we have come.
Dr. King, a key architect of the Civil Rights Movement, dedicated his life to transforming our country into a more just and equitable society. His message of love over hate, unity over division, and equality for all remains as relevant today as ever. However, his legacy is not just a moral one—it is embedded in the policies he championed.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964, one of the most significant legislative achievements in American history, outlawed discrimination based on race, religion, sex, color, and nationality. This landmark law laid the foundation for monumental societal shifts, including the desegregation of public spaces and the dismantling of systemic inequalities in employment and education. It also paved the way for further protections, extending civil rights to women, people with disabilities, and other marginalized communities.
Equally pivotal was the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which placed voting rights under federal oversight, making it illegal to racially discriminate against voters. This legislation reinforced the 15th Amendment, ensuring that access to the ballot box was no longer left to the whims of state Governments.
Yet, perhaps King’s most enduring impact is his ability to inspire each of us to believe in our own power to create meaningful change. He reminded us that we are inextricably connected, stating, “We are tied together in the single garment of destiny, caught in an inescapable network of Mutuality.”
This year, let us resist the temptation to simply reflect on Dr. King’s words. Instead, let us honor his legacy through action. Vote in every election. Advocate for policies that promote justice and equity. Support organizations fighting for civil rights. Engage in meaningful conversations. Serve your community. Push back against the narratives that threaten our collective destiny. The dream is only realized when we commit ourselves to the ongoing work of building a more just Society.
-City of Bloomington Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration Commission
Join the National Civil Rights Museum Remembering MLK |
On April 4th, the National Civil Rights Museum’s annual commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination reminds the world of the sacrifices made for justice and equality. This year's theme, “How Long, Not Long,” echoes Dr. King’s 1965 speech on voting rights, reinforcing the urgency of collective power for social change. Join the Museum in-person or virtually on April 4th at 5:00 PM Central for “Remembering MLK: The Man. The Movement. The Moment.” The event will feature- 🔹 Keynote Address & Special Performances – Inspirational selections by soloist Deborah Thomas and the Tennessee Mass Choir, plus a dramatic interpretation of Dr. King’s speech by Hattiloo Theatre. 🔹 A Fraternal Tribute – Dr. King’s fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., will pay tribute. 🔹 Student Voices – The Museum’s Keeper of the Dream Award winners will share what King’s legacy means today. 🔹 Moment of Silence – The ceremony culminates with the changing of the balcony wreath and a moment of silence at 6:01 PM Central, the time Dr. King was slain. This event is free and open to the public, with a live stream available on the Museum’s website, YouTube, and Facebook. Learn more and register for "Remembering MLK: The Man. The Movement. The Moment.” |
Commissioners Discuss 57th Anniversary of Dr. King's Assassination
Listen to the Bring It On! interview
Bring It On!, host Clarence Boone spends the hour with Indiana University doctoral student, Latonya Wilson, and fellow MLK Commission member and Bring It On contributor, Dr. Gloria Howell, the director of the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center, to discuss the 57th anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination on April 4, 1968.
Commissioners Read to Students and Reflect on Dr. King
Dr. Gloria Howell and Julie Roberts read to Montessori students on Wednesday, April 2nd, to commemorate Dr. King. Students asked engaging questions and provided feedback about the lessons of equality, civility, and unity.
Books were provided by the Monroe County Public Library. The library offers several wonderful, curated book lists that offer suggested reading materials for elementary students and teens.
Featuring-
Books on civil rights
Books celebrating Black voices
Antiracist books for teens