Marking the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s death
| By Stephanie Weaver
Dear Members of the Loyola Community:
Today, 50 years after the death of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we remember the civil rights leader’s life and legacy and consider how his message continues to challenge our words and actions. Dr. King believed individuals had a moral imperative to act—to speak out and stand up for those whose voices were not being heard. When Dr. King spoke, he changed minds and hearts in a distinctive way that offered hope and change to our nation. Each of us has an opportunity—and that same moral imperative—to promote hope and bring about change in our community, as well.
Here at Loyola University Maryland we are actively engaged in an ongoing effort to address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. This morning from 8:30 a.m.-noon, Kaye Whitehead, Ph.D., professor of communication, and her students are holding an event, “2018 MLK Teach-In: Understanding the Impact of His Words,” on campus near Starbucks. I hope you will consider stopping by or seek out another opportunity for reflection, prayer, or conversation on our campus and within our community. Campus Ministry is inviting members of our community to walk together to the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen for the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s ecumenical prayer service that will be held to honor Dr. King on April 12 at 7 p.m.
Fifty years ago yesterday when Dr. King gave his last speech, “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop,” he said, “For when people get caught up with that which is right and they are willing to sacrifice for it, there is no stopping point short of victory.” Let us keep our sights on victory over racism, over hatred, and over injustice. Today, as we remember Dr. King and talk and reflect and pray, let us consider how, as members of a Jesuit university community, we can speak out and work actively to end racism and bring about greater justice on our campus and in our world.
Sincerely,
Rev. Brian F. Linnane, S.J.
President