CMU Unity March Honors MLK

Story and photos by Brooke DuVall

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy left a mark on many. On Monday, January 20, his values of peace and equality were embodied at CMU through the MLK Community Peace March and Vigil.

Although it had to be relocated indoors due to frigid temperatures, the outpour of support radiated throughout the halls of the Student Activity Center.

Students, faculty, and the Mount Pleasant Community had the chance to create a space where all voices could be heard. 

“I thought it was really nice, I always enjoy the speakers at the end,” senior at CMU Amina Torres said. “I thought having the actual march inside wasn’t the best, but it was too cold outside, so we had to adapt.” 

Assistant Director for Multicultural Student Education, Alfred Harper said the march has been around CMU for a few decades. 

“I believe it’s important to recognize and uphold this tradition because there have been individuals from multiple forms of underrepresented, marginalized communities who are specifically going for equality and in equity, and expressing that demonstration,” Harper said. 

Individuals from different backgrounds and nationalities all came together to see what they care about. 

“[They] are able to come together to see how each other’s issues and what they most care about can connect and intersect with each other,” he said. “It allows individuals, specifically our students, to come together with the Mount Pleasant community and work for an equal playing ground.”

Those who attended the march got to express their voices. 

“It’s practicing civility, and allowing individuals the space to voice their concerns in a nonviolent, cordial way,” he said. “People come together for various forms of camaraderie 

Dr. Martin Luther King did not just march for a specific group. He did it during that time of civil rights, and for African Americans, but there were individuals that came alongside from other backgrounds as well. That’s because they were able to have communication and I would say be able to actually talk. He wrote about each other’s various issues and be able to talk out things as far as what can we do to actually come together to get to a solution.” 

Torres attended the event to showcase what she values.

“Actions have more value than just saying you believe in something, Torres said. “Showing up to these events is so important to help others realize they should be there too.” 

The MLK Community Peace March left participants feeling motivated to work for change. Chants of justice and equality was heard echoing through the halls, bringing people from all walks of life together. 

This event demonstrates that Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy is still alive and breathing, immersing itself into the lives of those who are still fighting for equal representation.  

“It’s important to celebrate MLK day because it’s a day on and not a day off because it represents helping those who can’t help themselves and emphasizing the importance of equality and equity,” Torres said. 

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