Candlelight vigil honors King
Students met in remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. Tuesday evening in the Taggart Student Center Sunburst Lounge.
King was honored for his life and his great dream for all people. Members of the Black Student Union and Multicultural Services organized the event, which has now become an annual tradition at Utah State University.
The vigil was held to help students remember King’s dream of equal rights and to recognize his important influence in history.
“This night was really insightful and important to remember Martin Luther King Jr. and understand why we honor him,” said Jessie Lopez, a freshman studying general education.
Katy Mejia, a sophomore studying nursing, said, “Martin Luther led the road for opportunity, and it is great to learn more about him and what he did to help establish equality.”
Several speakers at the ceremony reflected on moments in the life of King, each reminding the students of his dream to achieve equality.
Darron Smith, author, activist and doctorate candidate lectured about the dream that needs to continue today to help create King’s dream of equality.
“The dream of Martin Luther is not yet fulfilled. Everyone’s voice and background should matter and is of equal importance,” Smith said.
Mike Addo, a USU graduate student studying business administration, spoke on the life of King.
Addo said the importance of appreciating diversity and establishing equality reflects the teachings of King.
“No matter where or what you are, we are God’s children,” Addo said. “The flowers aren’t beautiful if they are all the same color. You need to have a variety of colors to see the beauty of flowers, just like people. People need a variety of cultures and colors to truly be beautiful.”
Many thoughts were shared with students, not only about equality, but also how individuals should strive to achieve personal dreams.
“I hope that you leave this ceremony not only understanding that Martin Luther was great but that you can accomplish your dreams and reach your maximum potential,” said Phiwo Mnyandu, president of the USU Black Students Union.
-emilymashton@cc.usu.edu
Keynote speaker Darron Smith addresses candlelight vigil attendees in the Sunburst Lounge. Smith spoke about the accomplishments of Martin Luther King Jr. and some current efforts to keep King´s dream of equality alive. (Photo by John Zsiray)
Students are shown shadowed against an image of Martin Luther King Jr. during the multi-media presentation. (Photo by John Zsiray)