Florida State University is organizing its 38th annual Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Week from January 14 to January 20, with the theme “Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers.” The university aims to promote connection and understanding within its community through a series of events that are free and open to the public.
The main events will take place on Tuesday, January 20, including the MLK Commemoration Ceremony and the Golden Torch Lecture Series. Leslie Odom, Jr., an award-winning songwriter, actor, and author known for his role as Aaron Burr in “Hamilton,” will serve as this year’s keynote speaker.
“This year’s theme reflects our commitment to fostering understanding and meaningful connection across our campus and community,” said Felicia Williams, director of Student Engagement. “We are honored to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Florida State and look forward to a week of inspiring events, thought-provoking discussions and community engagement that challenge us to overcome divisions, strengthen relationships and continue Dr. King’s work.”
The commemoration ceremony will also include performances by the FSU Gospel Choir and Dance Ensemble, as well as scholarship presentations recognizing members of the FSU community. Tickets for this event can be obtained at tickets.fsu.edu starting at noon on Thursday, January 15.
Additional activities during MLK Week include:
– On Thursday, January 15: The MLK Dialogue Dinner titled “Breaking Bread and Breaking Barriers” at the FSU Alumni Center will provide student leaders with a space for conversation focused on empathy and understanding.
– On Saturday, January 17: The Civil Rights Institute at FSU will host “Memories of a Living King,” blending art, performance, and discussion about Dr. King’s legacy.
– On Monday, January 19: Tallahassee-wide events such as the MLK Day Parade downtown; Dream Festival at Cascades Park; an annual barbecue hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.; games; local vendors; free food; voter registration; and volunteer service opportunities coordinated through Engage TLH.
The Department of Student Engagement within FSU’s Division of Student Affairs coordinates these programs to help students connect with each other and with the university community.
More information about event schedules can be found at mlk.fsu.edu.
