January 19 is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday honoring Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism in the Civil Rights Movement.
On the day, schools and some workplaces close for a “day on,” encouraging acts of service for the betterment of the community to honor Dr. King’s legacy.
The day can also be an opportunity for exploration and education about Black history and contemporary Black culture in the Flint & Genesee community.
Here are some ways you can spend this Martin Luther King Jr. Day:
Jan. 15| Preserving the Dream in the Midst of Turmoil
This citywide event celebrates the legacy of. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., featuring a keynote address from the Honorable Judge Mary A. Hood. All proceeds will support a Martin Luther King, Jr. scholarship.
Admission is $50 per person.
Jan. 16 to 18| Selma
The Flint Institute of Arts and Friends of Modern Art will present "Selma," an acclaimed biographical film about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Jan. 17| Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Event
This community event will feature music, inspiration, and encouragement, emphasizing the connection between self-care and community.
Jan 19| MLK Day Keynote Breakfast
This event is presented by the University of Michigan-Flint with Dr. Dawn Demps as the keynote speaker.
Jan 19| MLK Day Service: United Way
United Way’s annual day of service is looking for 50 volunteers to package meals for families in Genesee County.
Jan. 19| MLK Day Service: No Sew Blanket
There is a volunteer opportunity at the University of Michigan-Flint to make no-sew blankets for people experiencing homelessness.
Jan. 19| MLK Day Service: Crossover Downtown Outreach Ministry
Volunteers are needed at Crossover Downtown Ministries to help clean things up after the holiday season.
Jan 19| Harlem Renaissance Fashion Show
The Flint Cultural Academy hosts a free celebration of 1920s fashion and culture. Fashion, music, and art will highlight this look back at the influence of Black culture in the early 20th century.
Jan 20| Healing Together: Our Shared Future in Genesee County
This event, recognizing the National Day of Racial Healing, will include performances, mindfulness activities, group reflections, and community dialogue.
There are many other ways to get involved in the community, and you can find links via UM-Flint’s Campus Connections site.
Get out in the community
Get out and explore culture in the Flint & Genesee. You can do so by visiting local museums or by supporting a local Black-owned business. Discover Black-owned businesses in Flint & Genesee in these Explore Flint & Genesee blog posts:
