With the Spring 2011 academic year kicking off last Wednesday, it may seem odd that students already get a day off this Monday. It’s Martin Luther King Day, and Belmont’s Black Student Association (BSA) will host two services in honor of this day.
The MLK worship service will be held on Sunday evening from 6-8 p.m. in the Massey Performing Arts Center. This is an annual event, and BSA President Steven Martin says this year, its purpose is two-fold.
“The first portion of the evening will be the actual worship service. This is a student-led worship experience that has been prepared to both praise & worship God, as well as pay respect to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., his legacy, and the many great things that he accomplished that have contributed to the improvement of society,” Martin said.
After the worship service is over there will be a panel discussion. In Belmont’s five-year plan called Vision 2015, it was stated that Belmont strives to be a more diverse campus and university. This dialogue will consist of staff and students from diverse backgrounds who will discuss their personal opinions and experiences of the diversity at Belmont. Students and attendees are welcome to ask questions about racial and ethnic diversity on campus and offer feedback to the panelists. Personal/Professional Growth Convocation credit will be given.
The second service will be the third annual Commemorative Candlelight Vigil on Monday, Jan. 17 at Massey Performing Arts Center. The event will be held from 7-9 p.m. Attendees will journey into the history of Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights movement.