“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?.” Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., 1967 sermon
With most schools closed Monday, January 16 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we have put together a list of a few things to do to learn more about Martin Luther King, Jr., his legacy and how to volunteer in the Greater Lansing community.
Be sure to check back, as we learn of more events we will add to this list. If you know of any, please email [email protected]
Attend the “Spartan Glow and Flow” skating event at IM Sports East
Saturday, January 14 from 8-11pm, doors open at 7pm
In recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy of living with intention, the 2023 MLK Student Committee within the 2023 MLK Commemorative Committee and Recreational Sports and Fitness will host a Health and Wellness “Spartan Glow and Flow” skating event.
The event is free to attend, additional information can be found HERE.
Support a Black-owned business
Here’s a GLAMom list of Greater Lansing Local Black Owned Businesses
Visit your local library and check out a couple of books about Martin Luther King Jr.
Many libraries will be closed Monday so plan ahead and make your selections before. HERE is a list of top picks from the East Lansing Public Library staff. Including:
I am Martin Luther King, Jr
I Have a Dream
My Daddy, Dr Martin Luther King, Jr
What was the March on Washington
Coloring pages with famous MLK Quotes
to help all ages learn more about this important holiday.
Watch films about King’s life
Maybe begin with Our Friend, Martin, a story that is shared in numerous classrooms. Although it is an animated film, it features historical footage of King at different times of his. Then watch Ava Duvernay’s Selma to find out that King lived a life that was much more complex than the image we have been told.
2023 Martin Luther King Jr. Community Day of Service
At Allen Neighborhood Center, Monday, January 16, 9am-noon
Join them in honoring Dr. King’s legacy by helping us at the GardenHouse and distributing newsletters to neighbors. Free to attend, Eventbrite registration is required, registration HERE.
Volunteer to paint at The Women’s Center of Greater Lansing
Monday, January 16, between 8:45am-5pm
Help paint their space. They are updating the colors to ensure a healing and inviting environment for everyone who walks through the doors. They recently received a grant from the Michigan Community Service Commission that was matched by a generous anonymous donor to cover the cost of supplies for the day. Sign up is required. More information HERE.
Attend the 2023 Commemorative MLK March
March starts at 9 am, Monday, January 16.
The March will begin at Beaumont Tower and will conclude at the proposed location for the MSU Multicultural Center (near the River Trail and Shaw Hall).
The March free is to attend, if you have a group you would like to participate, please see THIS FORM for additional information.
Attend the Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid Michigan – A Day of Celebration Luncheon
Monday, January 16 at 11am, the Luncheon will be held at the Lansing Center
Purchase tickets HERE
Visit the MSU Museum
Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am-5pm
Share the richness of Black Bottom, Detroit’s community history and stories at the MSU Museum through a self-guided exhibition experience (Approximately 30 minutes).
See the unique “signature quilt,” created by women from the historic Zion Congregational Church of God in Christ in the mid 20th century and embroidered with their names and other personal information. Hear the voices of current church elders and relatives remembering the quilt contributors from their own youth, impacts on their lives, and life in this close-knit community. Come explore the role of oral histories and community artifacts as cultural transmission, preservation, and research and leave inspired to document your own community stories!
Special audio resources for available MLK Celebration Week.
Free to attend, ticket reservation is required – Reserve your free ticket before arrival.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a day dedicated to volunteer service honoring his Legacy. To find additional volunteer opportunities, visit Mlkday.gov
