The inaugral Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon Celebration took place on Jan. 15, the 86th anniversary of King’s birthday in Mabee Ballroom. The luncheon was hosted by the Multicultural Leadership Board (MLB) and featured keynote speaker Dr. Calvin Kelly, director of the Health and Counseling Center. 

The event attracted a diverse group of faculty, staff, students and guests. 

Kelly’s speech addressed the cultural diversity of his audience, commenting on how today’s generation can continue to work and achieve King’s dream. 

“As great as Dr. King’s accomplishments were and are… Dr. King’s dream is not fully fulfilled,” Kelly said. 

Instead of focusing on King’s legacy, Kelly said that all students have goals, dreams and legacies of their own. 

“You’re not the leaders of tomorrow…you are the leaders of today,” Kelly said. “How can I begin to live out Dr. King’s legacy and embrace my own reality? Each of us can find the courage and integrity to make positive change.” 

King’s dream of acceptance was evident in a prayer said by Brother Larry Atkinson in which Atkinson addressed many religions present at St. Edward’s University.

“God, we thank you for the fact that you have inspired many men and women in all nations and in all cultures,” Atkinson said. “We call you different names; some call you Allah, some call you Elohim, some call you Jehova, some call you Brahma and some call you the unmoved mover.” 

Samantha Herd, black heritage events coordinator for MLB, closed the event by acknowledging the dreams of an inspirational American figure. 

“I am so proud and honored to be living in the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.,” Herd said. “To know what I know and to have what I have because of him and those who stood with him… it’s a beautiful day to be black.” 

A march will be held in King’s honor on Jan. 19 at 9 a.m. beginning at the Martin Luther King Jr. statue at the University of Texas at Austin and ending at Huston-Tillotson University.