Detroit Mercy event examines King's legacy

University of Detroit Mercy is commemorating the life of Martin Luther King Jr. with a webinar discussion on his legacy.

Alex Zamalin, associate professor of Political Science and director of the African American Studies program at Detroit Mercy, and a student panel will examine how cultural concerns from recent events have impacted King's legacy on Thursday, Jan. 20 from 12:45-2 p.m. 

"It's more than just reflecting on the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., but also reflecting on how we live out the values daily," said Dorothy Stewart, associate dean of students and chair of Detroit Mercy’s Martin Luther King Jr. and Black History Month planning team. "We should not sit back and be complacent or comfortable because something is not impacting us directly, but constantly improve on working on inequities in society today.”  

Zamalin specializes in African American history and political thought, and has written several books and essays on the subjects. Those interested in participating in the webinar must register in advance. 

Stewart says she hopes people will learn and experience “that many of the freedoms we enjoy now are linked back to Martin Luther King Jr. and his philosophy that ‘all men are created equal’” through this programming.  

The University will also celebrate Black History Month with a variety of events throughout February. The African mask making event, originally part of Detroit Mercy's Martin Luther King Jr. programming, has been rescheduled for Black History Month.

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