Aurora celebrates MLK legacy on Jan. 16

The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and legacy is celebrated during a commemoration at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, at Metea Valley High School, 1801 N. Eola Road, Aurora.

Hosted by Aurora's MLK Committee, in collaboration with the city of Aurora and Aurora's African-American Heritage Board, the annual event will feature performances by students from Aurora schools, a presentation of the Service Above Self Awards to students who have been of service to the Aurora community, and recognition to those who participated in Aurora's MLK Day of Service.

"This year, we will educate and empower our audience through dramatic portrayals of milestones in the civil rights leader's short, yet impactful,! life," said Joe Grisson, co-chairman of the 2017 MLK Committee.

Student groups from local schools will spotlight such milestones in King's life as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, his visit to India, his time in a Birmingham jail, the March on Selma and his Poor People's Campaign. The portrayals will be accompanied by video clips and songs performed by local singers.

Transitions between presentations will be narrated by Aurora native Mark Sanders II. An Aurora Christian High School alum, Sanders graduated from King's alma mater, Morehouse College, in Atlanta.

An orator and community organizer, Sanders is a sought-after speaker who will offer insight to the life of King and how his message applies today.

"How exciting it will be to have students walk in the shoes of Martin Luther King Jr.," said Jackiey Gibson, co-chairman of the 2017 MLK Committee. "They will tell the story, relive the dream, and leave the event with a goal to live each day on purpose and in persistent pursuit of a plan to get us all to the proverbial mountaintop."

Admission is free.

Students also are encouraged to volunteer in the MLK Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 16, at 11 locations throughout the city. A part of United We Serve, a national call to service initiative, the MLK Day of Service is a way to transform King's life and teachings into community service that helps strengthen local communities.

At Aurora's MLK Day of Service, more than 250 slots are available for student volunteers. Aurora middle school, high school and college students are encouraged to participate. All students who participate in the Aurora Day of Service will be honored at the MLK Celebration at Metea.

To volunteer and for information on the 2017 MLK Celebration and Day of Service, visit aurora-il.org/mlk.