Martin Luther King Day – an important dedication to an individual that helped us make great strides for equality in this country. Today, Monday, January 17, celebrates the life and accomplishments of Dr. King and the many people who have and continue the fight for civil rights. There are several sources fro Mr. King’s biographical sketch online. By far, my favorite is on the Nobel Prize site. Mr. King was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
There are a number of events happening all around Pittsburgh to commemorate the day. I hope that you can take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the important contributions made by this most remarkable of men.
The Great Debaters
Carnegie Library Of Pittsburgh (Homewood)
1/15/2011 1pm
Based on a true story, this 2007 film relates the true story of the efforts of debate coach Melvin B. Tolson at historically black Wiley College to place his team on equal footing with whites in the American South during the 1930s, when Jim Crow laws were common and lynch mobs were a pervasive fear for blacks. The fine cast includes Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker.
A discussion following the film will focus on the root causes of exclusion based on race, sex, and differences in families, communities and the country.
Presented in conjunction with the United Black Book Clubs Of Pittsburgh, an association of librarians, readers and book clubs formed to promote literary activities.
For more information, call (412) 731-3080.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration
Children’s Museum Of Pittsburgh
1/17/2011
Celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. with interactive and inspirational programming.
Martin Luther King Jr (1929-1968) was a clergyman, activist and prominent leader in the African-American civil rights movement who was also one of the greatest orators in U.S. history.
For more information, call (412) 322-5058.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: The 1,000 Birds Project
Union Project
1/17/2011
Celebrate this year’s Martin Luther King Jr Day by taking part in a special photographic mosaic, which will document the diversity of our inclusive community and serve as a reminder of the day.
Martin Luther King Jr (1929-1968) was a clergyman, activist and prominent leader in the African-American civil rights movement who was also one of the greatest orators in U.S. history. A photographer will take photos of all participants’ hands holding a bird ornament. These photographs will later be arranged into a photographic mosaic to be exhibited at Union Project and featured on UP’s website alongside past community art projects.
This free, family-friendly event also includes live entertainment by emerging artists and local performers, story telling, book giveaways and tours of Union Project. The event will conclude with readings from a multi-cultural selection of speeches that offer a variety of perspectives on Dr. King’s vision followed by a shared community meal comprising foods that would typically be served after a peace rally, including traditional southern African-American, vegetarian and kosher fare. For more information, call (412) 363-4550.
East Liberty Celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr
Kelly-Strayhorn Performing Arts Center
1/17/2011 2pm
Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with an inter-generational showcase of Pittsburgh artists who celebrate the man who helped change America forever. There will also be activities for kids, including arts and craftmaking, in the lobby.
Martin Luther King Jr (1929-1968) was a clergyman, activist and prominent leader in the African-American civil rights movement who was also one of the greatest orators in U.S. history.
Admission is free. For more information, call (412) 363-3000.
