Ending Racism in an Hour: Remembering Martin Luther King

Boston University’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration on January 20 focused on a current reflection of the strides King’s ideas have made and what further actions need to be taken in order to create equality for all. The event, entitled From Inner Strength to a Revolution of Hope: Fresh Reflection on King’s Legacy, started with a welcome from Dean Elmore, who introduced Massachusetts Senator Edward Markey. Markey discussed what King would have wanted: income equality, immigrant rights, strengthening of Obamacare, and LGBT and women’s rights. In addition to performances from Inner Strength Gospel Choir and a collaboration between Roxbury Youth Orchestra and BU Hip-Hop, comedian W. Kamau Bell presented a keynote that attempted to “end racism in an hour.” Bell’s socio-political comedy opened up a discussion of racism and the connotation of race. Race, he suggested, is a social construct that separates people from each other. The event’s modern interpretation and extension of MLK’s cause demonstrated the need for equality and respect among all.

Dean Elmore facilitated the event and discussed his connection to Martin Luther King Day
Dean Elmore facilitated the event and discussed his personal connection to Martin Luther King Day.

 

Senator Edward Markey gives remarks on MLK's influence on his decision to enter politics and the need for social reform
Senator Edward Markey gives remarks on MLK’s influence on his decision to enter politics and the need for social reform.

 

The audience watched as a soloist performs I've Got to Keep Movin' with Inner Strength Gospel Choir
The audience watched as a soloist performs I’ve Got to Keep Movin’ with Inner Strength Gospel Choir.

 

W. Kamau Bell presented a keynote on race and racism
W. Kamau Bell presented a keynote on race and racism

 

The audience participated by clapping along during the musical collaboration between Roxbury Youth Orchestra and BU Hip-Hop
The audience participated by clapping along during the musical collaboration between Roxbury Youth Orchestra and BU Hip-Hop.

 

Revolution of Hope: Roxbury Youth Orchestra and BU Hip-Hop
Revolution of Hope: Roxbury Youth Orchestra and BU Hip-Hop

All photos by Carol Chin

 

About Carol Chin

Carol (SMG/CAS '14) is a photographer for The Quad. She is your average Taiwanese girl from Connecticut who happens to love Swedish Fish, mozzarella sticks, and IKEA.

View all posts by Carol Chin →

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