04-03-2025
Springfield College hosts MLK Jr. lecture panel
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – A thought-provoking discussion was held Monday night during Springfield College's 12th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Lecture.
The panelist featured state senator Adam Gomez, president of Mount Holyoke College Danielle Holley, and Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services CEO Shannon Rudder.
The discussion covered a wide variety of topics related to MLK Jr. and his legacy. The guest speakers were also asked to reflect on the current social and political climate under the new presidential administration, especially as diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives disband nationwide.
'You cannot celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King and not believe in diversity, equity, and inclusion,' says Honey. 'To me, this kind of 'Santa-Claus-ification' of Dr king is something that when we celebrate the holiday. We have to fight actively against that, I encourage people to read more than just, 'I want my children to be recognized for the content of their character and not the color of their skin.'
The lecture also celebrated the 61st anniversary of Dr. King's commencement address to Springfield College back in 1964.
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