Dean Elmore’s MLK Day Thoughts and University Events
I credit Professor David Eckel and the Institute for Philosophy and Religion as inspiration for the theme “Hope, Despair, and the Blues” for this year’s annual University-wide celebration of the life and legacy of alumnus Martin Luther King, Jr, taking place in Metcalf Hall in the George Sherman Union on January 16th at 2pm. Such a title may be about age-old human tensions but seems to sum up the tensions of the times. This year we’ll engage the times by showcasing the work of artists and educators. The art will be about connections with conversations and ideas on justice in the civil society. For our speakers and performers, I give thanks for their creative energy, instinct for truth, and incredible presence.
Many of us may feel – for the first time – as though we are inescapably caught in conversations, discussions, dialogues, and reflections. Next week also allows us pause for these continued reflections about our personal and collective futures: big government transition is here. With the transition, promising, formal gatherings and discussions led by professors, students, and departments will fill the campus:
On the Way We Go: Chaos or Community?
Every year, we celebrate the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. on the Medical Campus. The event, which is the highlight of our diversity-related activities, usually consists of a speech on a topic related to the ideals of Dr. King. This year, Kenneth Elmore, JD, Associate Provost and Dean of Students, Boston University will deliver remarks
Thursday, January 19, 2017; Noon
School of Medicine, Instructional Building, Hiebert Lounge
“Motherless Child” performed by Margaret Lee (vocal), Moises Fernandez (piano)
Refreshments and Music Interlude. Part of the Medical Campus celebration of the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Thursday, January 19, 2017; 12:40 p.m.
School of Medicine, Instructional Building, Hiebert Lounge
Town Meeting
A conversation about the current national climate and its implications for diversity, inclusion, health care and other areas. This is an opportunity to come together as a community and share thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. Part of the Medical Campus celebration of the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Thursday, January 19, 2017; 1 p.m.
School of Medicine, Instructional Building, Hiebert Lounge
President’s Inaugural Swearing-in Ceremony and the Inaugural Address
Televised Viewing
Friday, January 20, 2017; beginning at 11:30 a.m.
BU Central (775 Commonwealth Avenue, lower level)
Coffee and Conversation: From Election to Inauguration – The Beginning of the Trump Administration
Coinciding with the inauguration of Donald Trump as President of the United States, Coffee and Conversation will kick-off the semester with a discussion on the President’s cabinet choices, actions, tweets and agenda for the first 100 days of his administration. Free coffee and brownies will be served. Students, faculty and staff are welcome.
Friday, January 20. 2017; 3 – 5 p.m.
Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground (775 Commonwealth Avenue, lover level)
The Ground Has Shifted: The Future of the Black Church and the Problem of Race in Post-Obama America
Panel with Rev. Dr. Walter Fluker, Martin Luther King, Jr. Professor of Ethical Leadership and prominent clergy from Boston on the future of the Black church and its role in healing racial divisions in the United States. A reception and book signing will follow the panel. Free and open to BU community members.
Monday, January 23, 2017; 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground (775 Commonwealth Avenue, lover level)
RSVP: groundbu.eventbrite.com
Share, with us, the things you’re doing to initiate or participate in conversations, discussions, dialogues, and reflections with folks who are not like you and those who are, too, with us. Also, send us suggestions for additional gatherings and reflections. Hit us up at dos@bu.edu