The Multicultural Student Center (MSC), Campus Activities Board and Student Government Association hosted UCF’s 4th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Remembrance March on January 13. It was the first of a month-long series of activities commemorating civil rights in America. Students, faculty and staff gathered in the Student Union atrium where they left their mark on a large banner, expressing what the United States civil rights movement means to them. The Saint James AME Episcopal Church Praise team led the march from the atrium to the Reflecting Pond with everyone singing “We Shall Overcome” in unison, followed by more gospel selections throughout the ceremony.
Special guest poet Ruth Tuffet delivered a rousing rendition of King’s timeless “I Have A Dream” speech in its entirety, along with a poem of hope and faith dedicated to those affected by the recent earthquake in Haiti. Bobby Seale, keynote speaker and co-founder of the Black Panther Party, provided a personal perspective on the battle for justice and equality with anecdotes on his inspiration and experiences with Black Panthers and the justice system in the 1960s. Seale met with interested individuals for further discussion at a meet and greet reception in the Pegasus Ballroom following the ceremony.
The MSC will be sponsoring related events throughout February, including a showing of American History X and assisting with the Black Faculty and Staff Association Mentoring Breakfast. Furthermore, the award-winning documentary “Eyes on the Prize” will be shown in the office through February 12. For more information on these and upcoming events, visit the MSC in the Student Union room 153 or call 407.823.0401.
