Aurora University host free Martin Luther King dinner

Aurora University's Martin Luther King dinner doesn't bill itself as an educational event.

“It's a simple event that kind of describes Martin Luther King from a spiritual, political viewpoint,” said Shammrie Brown, a senior in social work and president of the Black Student Association.

In his speech, Brown said he will discuss the simple things — like scholarships or grants to purchase books — that help make students' dreams of completing their education a reality. He said the event is part of the Black Student Association's goal to re-establish relationships, with the community, faculty, staff and other students.

“It's our way to build community, to get people to come together, talk, feel comfortable and bond through Aurora University and Martin Luther King Day,” Brown said.

The dinner, set for 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 15. in Alumni Hall, 1410 Marseillaise Place, Aurora, is free, but members of the public interested in attending must RSVP to (630) 844-5486 or rrutkovs@aurora.edu today.

While it will be held in an educational setting, the dinner will not be a history lesson about the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Betts said many students don't need a history lesson because their families have passed on the importance and the influence of King's actions.

A dance group called Divine Purpose will perform, a jazz band will serenade attendees and students will read poetry and other speeches centered around the theme of dreams and how to make them realities.